By Adesakin Adefemi
The Borno State Police Command has confirmed the death of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Abubakar Balteh, who until his passing served as head of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
He died on Saturday, February 21, 2026, in a fatal vehicle accident along one of the major highways outside Maiduguri, sending shockwaves through the state’s security community.
Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, announced the tragedy in a brief statement, expressing the Command’s deep regret. “The Borno State Police Command regrets the passing of ACP Abubakar A. Balteh, who passed away today, 21st February, 2026, in a fatal vehicle accident,” he said, adding that the incident has left colleagues and subordinates devastated.
Daso described the late officer as a diligent and committed senior police officer who served with distinction, noting that his leadership at the SCID was instrumental in tackling criminal investigations and strengthening confidence in policing across Borno. He added that details of burial arrangements would be communicated in due course.
The Command offered prayers for the deceased, saying, “May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest.”
ACP Balteh’s death comes just months after the passing of another senior officer, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Ahmed Ibn Umar, who died in November 2025 after a prolonged illness. Umar, who also served in the SCID, was remembered for his dedication to duty, making Balteh’s sudden death another painful blow to the Command within a short period.
Colleagues and subordinates described ACP Balteh as a courageous leader who played a key role in investigating and prosecuting criminal cases across Borno State, especially at a time when the state continues to face security challenges from insurgency and other criminal activities. His loss, they said, will be felt not only by the police but by communities who relied on his expertise for justice and safety.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across security circles, with many noting that his death is a significant loss to the fight against crime in Borno. Senior officers, community leaders, and residents have expressed condolences, hailing him as a man of integrity, bravery, and unwavering commitment to service.
The Police Command has urged officers and members of the public to remain calm and prayerful as they mourn the loss of one of its senior officers, while assuring that steps will be taken to honor his memory and sustain the work he championed.
