Tragic news emerges from Delta State as the Defence Headquarters confirms the loss of 15 military personnel during a communal conflict. Among the fallen are two Majors, one Captain, and 12 soldiers who served their country.
According to reports, the unfortunate demise of these military personnel occurred as they responded to a distress call amidst a clash between the Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State on Thursday.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, disclosed that the troops, deployed on a peacekeeping mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi LGA, were assaulted and met their demise at the hands of local youths.
He highlighted that the commanding officer who spearheaded the reinforcement team was among those who lost their lives in the confrontation.
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The statement read, “The troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, 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.”
Gusau added that the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, had ordered a probe into the matter.
He also noted that the matter had been reported to the state government.
Gusau, however, said some suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.
He said, “CDS 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. Additional details later.”
Six individuals were tragically killed, and several others were wounded by gunfire during a shootout sparked by a land dispute between two communities in January 2024.
In 2023, tensions flared anew between the two communities as they clashed over territory and the rights to a valuable fishing lake.