12-year-old killed in Maiduguri after child fires unsecured dane gun

A tragic incident in Maiduguri, Borno State, has claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy, Musa Audu Idrisa, following an accidental shooting by an eight-year-old neighbour.

The incident occurred on Wednesday at about 5:30 p.m. at Giwa Barracks while the children were playing within the premises.

According to sources, the younger child, identified as Abubakar Inusa, gained access to a loaded Dane gun that had been left unsecured by his father, Inusa Mohammed, a member of the Nigerian Hunters Group.

In the course of play, the firearm was discharged, fatally wounding Musa. He was rushed to the State Specialists Hospital in Maiduguri but was confirmed dead on arrival. His remains were later released to his family for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

Police authorities have since recovered the weapon and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly the alleged negligence in handling and securing the firearm.

Security officials also confirmed that the State Criminal Investigation Department has commenced a full inquiry aimed at ensuring accountability and preventing similar tragedies in the future.