A 6-year-old boy identified as Solomon Kingsley, was accidentally shot and killed by his 12-year-old elder brother, David Kingsley in Jalingo the Taraba state capital, according to Police.
The incident took place on Tuesday evening in the Nukkai community.
Addressing Journalists on Thursday, the Commissioner of Police, David Iloyanomon, said the case has been handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for investigation.
He noted that apart from the recent incident that occurred in Nukkai there is also a similar case of culpable homicide involving minors before the command and parents and guardians of the minors involved have been invited for interrogation.
“The cases are that of culpable homicide and minors cannot be charged for culpable homicide, investigation has been extended to the parents and guardians of those kids that left the guns carelessly, they were apprehended and transferred to the state CID for discreet investigation.
“Although the guns are dane guns, they will be charged for illegal possession of arms.” Mr Iloyanomon said.
All efforts by DAYLIGHT REPORTERS to speak with the father of the children were futile, as he declined to comment, citing grief over the loss.
Despite attempts by neighbours and Journalists to make him speak, he remained silent, leaving many unanswered questions.
Residents in the area recounted moments of fear and confusion upon hearing the gunshot, initially fearing an invasion by bandits or kidnappers.
Upon realizing the source of the gunfire, they discovered the tragic reality unfolding within their community, the discovery which they claimed compelled them to come out of their homes.
According to eyewitnesses, the accidental shooting occurred when the senior Kingsley mistakenly discharged the firearm, resulting in the death of his younger brother.
This devastating incident comes just weeks after three children lost their lives in Didango Geit village of Karim-Lamido local government council due to an accidental discharge from a dane gun.
Mr Iloyanomon also disclosed that within the month of April the command arrested 28 Suspects, recovered 7 AK47 rifles, 2 locally made pistols, 1 Beretta, 30 5.5mm live ammunition.
“Other items recovered are: 128 7.62mm ammunition, 1 Honda Motorcycle, 2 live Cartridges, 3 knives, 1 cutlass, 1 axe, 1 plier, 1 Itel handset, 1 plate number, 1 Tricycle, Eight hundred and fifty thousand naira cash.
“102 cows, One light rifle, Two SMG rifles, One fabricated AK47 rifle, Fourteen (14) Magazines.” He disclosed.
He then thanked the state Governor Agbu Kefas, for his commitment to combating crime and all forms of criminality in the state and his continuous support to security agencies in ensuring that the state is peaceful and conducive for all to go about their businesses.
“Taraba State Police Command will continue to remain committed to upholding law and order. We commend the dedication of our officers and men and also urge the public to continue to cooperate with the police at all levels and volunteer vital information to aid the fight against crime.” He said.