The Nigerian Army has confirmed that a soldier attached to the 63 Brigade, Asaba, killed a suspected criminal in self-defense during a confrontation at Delta Marine Logistics and Technical (DMLT) Estate in Warri, Delta State.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Captain Iliyasu Bawa-Rijau, said the incident occurred on October 13, 2025, during a tense encounter between the soldier and a group of men who allegedly attempted to force their way into the estate without proper security checks.
According to the statement, the individuals became aggressive when the soldier questioned their identities and purpose for entry, leading to a violent altercation.
“The soldier, who was on duty at the DMLT Estate gate, halted a group attempting to gain access without clearance. When asked to identify themselves, they became unruly and attacked the soldier,” Bawa-Rijau said.
He explained that the situation escalated into a physical struggle, during which the soldier, acting in self-defense, used combat skills that injured one of the assailants.
The injured suspect was taken to a nearby hospital but was later confirmed dead.
Bawa-Rijau added that the Otu-Jeremi Police Division was immediately informed and has since commenced an investigation into the incident.
The Army spokesperson urged residents of Delta State to remain law-abiding and comply with security checks, emphasizing that the Nigerian Army remains committed to upholding human rights while maintaining peace and order.
