Soldier Arrested For Chopping Off Trader’s Fingers
Tension gripped as police confirmed the arrest of a serving soldier, Private Sadiq Sani, for allegedly chopping off three fingers of a trader during a violent altercation in Minna, the capital of Niger State.
According to reports, the disturbing incident occurred on March 30, 2025, at about 3 p.m. in the Makera area of Minna. The suspect, a soldier attached to the 2 Division Brigade Garrison, reportedly visited the shop of 26-year-old Abdulrahman Salisu to purchase shoes. However, a disagreement over payment quickly escalated into a heated argument.
Eyewitnesses said the situation turned violent when Private Sani pulled out a cutlass concealed in his trousers. In a horrifying twist, the soldier allegedly attempted to strike Salisu on the head, but the victim instinctively raised his hands to protect himself — resulting in three of his fingers being severed.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, stated that the suspect fled the scene immediately after the attack.
However, after a swift investigation, he was tracked to his residence in Makera and arrested. He was subsequently transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and later handed over to the Military Police for further disciplinary action.
SP Abiodun described the act as brutal and unacceptable, assuring the public that justice would be pursued.
Meanwhile, the victim, Abdulrahman Salisu, is currently receiving treatment and has reportedly remained in stable condition.
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents, who are demanding a full investigation and justice for the victim.
