The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has ordered the arrest of some youths in Delta over the killing of a commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers.
According to Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, Acting Director of Defence Information, several young people from the community attacked and killed the servicemen on Thursday, March 14, 2024.
Communal Crisis Escalates Into Killing
In a statement made available to the media on Saturday, Gusau stated that “following the communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State, the troops of the 181 Amphibious Batallion, located in the Bomadi local government area of the state, reacted to a distress call.”
According to his statement, “The tragic occurrence happened as the army reacted to a distress call following the communal strife between the towns of Okuma and Okoloba in Delta State.”
He added, “The commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and twelve soldiers were killed in an attack on the reinforcement team he led.”
Jerrymusa.com reports that in reaction, General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has ordered a quick inquiry and the arrest of anyone connected to the terrible crime.
“The nasty incident has been reported to the Delta State Government for further action, the statement continued.
“He did, however, restate that the military is still dedicated to carrying out its mission of preserving the nation’s security and tranquillity.”
He stated, “A few arrests have been made thus far, and efforts are being taken to determine the attack’s motivation.”