Police investigate as stray bullet from VIP convoy kills Abuja man
Tragedy struck on Saturday when a stray bullet allegedly fired from a Very Important Personality (VIP) convoy hit and killed a passerby in Abuja.
The victim, identified as Timothy John, a resident of Dutse Baupma, was reportedly walking along the roadside when the convoy passed through the area, firing sporadically into the air.
It was gathered that the incident occurred shortly after a fatal road accident involving a DAF trailer truck, which rammed into five tricycles, creating a massive traffic jam.
Amid the gridlock, personnel attached to a VIP convoy reportedly began firing sporadically into the air, allegedly in an attempt to clear a path for the vehicles to pass.
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The gunfire caused panic and led to injuries among commuters, with at least one person confirmed dead.
Security source, Zagazola Makama, disclosed the incident via his X handle on Monday.
According to Zagazola, a chaotic exchange of gunfire during the incident led to a stray bullet striking Timothy John, a passerby from Dutse Baupma, in the chest.
“He was rushed to the Kubwa General Hospital but he was later pronounced dead by medical personnel.
“The shooting has sparked serious concerns over the conduct of the VIP convoy personnel involved, who have yet to be identified. It remains unclear whether the gunfire was deliberate or a result of reckless attempts to control the traffic situation.
“The initial accident occurred around 6:50pm when a Daf Trailer Truck, reportedly suffering brake failure, rammed into several tricycles. Eight people sustained injuries and were taken to the Kubwa General Hospital for treatment.”
He stated, “Two of the victims later died from their injuries. However, the focus has now shifted to the gunfire from the VIP convoy, which has overshadowed the original crash.
“Meanwhile, the body of Timothy John has been recovered and taken to Kubwa General Hospital, where an autopsy is expected to be conducted,” the source added.
When contacted, the FCT Police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, said, “We are unable to identify them; we are still investigating.”
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