THE Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, has ordered an investigation into the unfortunate deaths of four senior officers and twelve soldiers in Delta State.
According to reports, the dead military men went to a distress call following a communal disturbance between the Okuama and Okoloba villages in Delta State, before being killed on Thursday, March 14.
The Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, confirmed the incident in a statement today, saying the victims were surrounded by some community youths while troops from the 181 Amphibious Battalion were on a peace mission in the state’s Bomadi Local Government Area.
“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 statement read.
“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.”
Meanwhile, the defence spokesman stated that the incident had been reported to the Delta State Government, and that the CDS has also ordered that the perpetrators be identified.
According to him, some people have been arrested in connection with the incident.
He also emphasised the military’s commitment to its responsibility of ensuring peace and security throughout the country.
“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. So far, a few arrests have been made while steps in place to unravel the motive behind the attack.”
