Following the killing of troops of the Nigerian Army deployed for a peacekeeping mission to two warring communities in Bomadi LGA of Delta state, including the Commanding Officer, two Majors, one Captain and 12 Soldiers, the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa has ordered the immediate arrest and investigation of all those involved
The Director, of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau confirmed the killing of the military personnel on Saturday.
He said, “The troops of 181 Amphibious Batallion, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State while on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi LGA of Delta State were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, 14 March 2024.
“The unfortunate incident occurred when the troops responded to a distress call after the communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities both in Delta State.
“The reinforcement team led by the Commanding officer was also attacked, leading to the death of the Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain and 12 Soldiers.
“The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa has directed the immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime.
“The occurrence has been reported to the Delta State Govt.
“However, the military remains focused and committed to its mandate of maintaining peace and security in the country.
“So far, a few arrests have been made while steps are in place to unravel the motive behind the attack.
According to a source, who was a civilian in the military team, the commander and his men were taken unaware while on their way back to the waterfront after a deadlocked round table discussion over the kidnapped youth.
“We were coming back to our boats after the unfruitful discussion to release the kidnapped victim of Okoloba community. Suddenly, there were rains of bullets coming from all directions and some of us managed to escape. Many people were killed during the ambush, including the former honourable from Okoloba community, who reported the matter to the JTF.
“But, the commander and other officers were held hostage and taken to an unknown destination towards the creek opposite the community”, he said.
More so, the lifeless body of the kidnapped youth, Mr Anthony Aboh, has been recovered floating on River Forcados.
According to an Okoloba community source, “We found the lifeless body of Mr Anthony Aboh floating on River Forcados near Ayakoromor community, and like other victims, he was blindfolded with hands tied behind his back”.