The Headquarters of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, has confirmed that a soldier on duty acted in self-defence during a confrontation that led to the death of a suspected criminal at the Delta Marine Logistics and Technical (DMLT) Estate, Warri, Delta State, on 13 October 2025.
According to a statement signed by Captain Iliya Bawa-Rijau, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the incident occurred when a group of individuals attempted to force their way into the estate without undergoing the mandatory security checks.
The statement explained that when the soldier questioned their identities and intentions, the group became aggressive and violent. The confrontation escalated into a physical struggle, during which the soldier, acting in self-defence, used his armed combat skills to subdue one of the assailants, inflicting injuries in the process.
The injured suspect was immediately taken to a nearby hospital but was later confirmed dead. The incident was promptly reported to the Otu-Jeremi Police Division for further investigation.
The 63 Brigade urged residents of Delta State to remain law-abiding and comply with established security protocols, reiterating that the Nigerian Army remains committed to upholding human rights while performing its statutory duties.
