Military confirms killing of army commander, 2 majors, captain, 12 soldiers in Urhobo community in Delta

The Nigerian military has confirmed the killing of troops of the Nigerian Army deployed for a rescue mission in Okuama, an Urhobo community in Ughelli LGA of Delta State on Saturday.

According to the military, the commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers were killed in a rescue mission in Okuama community in Ughelli South local government area of Delta State.

It was gathered that the military was on a rescue mission to free a kidnapped resident of Okoloba community in Okuama community when the armed Okuama youths and hired mercenaries open fire at the military and killed them.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, had ordered the immediate arrest and investigation of all those involved in the dastardly act.

The confirmation was made by the Director, Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusauon Saturday.

The statement reads, “The troops of 181 Amphibious Batallion, Ughelli Local Government Area of Delta State, while on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Ughelli LGA of Delta State were surrounded by some Okuama community youths and killed on Thursday, March 14, 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 deaths 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 Government.

“However, the military remains focused and committed to its mandate of maintaining peace and security in the country.