*As aggrieved solders reportedly invaded Okuama town
By Esther Eugene, Warri
One lieutenant, two majors and twelve military men on rescue mission to Okuama community in Ughelli South local government area, Delta State, Wednesday have been confirmed dead, who were reportedly ambushed and taken unawares by armed fighters of the community.
In a reprisal attack, the soldiers have allegedly sacked the entire community.
The Bomadi Division of the JTF led by Maj. Jaffa embarked on a rescue mission to Okuama community to free a kidnapped youth, Mr Anthony Aboh, an indigene of neighbouring Okoloba community in Bomadi Local Government Area, who was abducted over the lingering land dispute between the two communities.
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 in the Okuama community hall 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.
Our findings also revealed that, twenty-two military men have been firmed dead at Okuama community, among them are one Lt coloniel, 2 majors, One Captain and eighteen soldiers.
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”.
The acting Director, Defence information Force headquarters, Abuja Brigadier General Tukur Gusau confirmed the killing in a statement, said
”’The troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State While on 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 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 in place to unravel the motive behind the attack. Additional details later.” He said.
Meanwhile, Okuama community has been invaded by soldiers as reprisal by soldiers.
According to military authorities, culprits have been put on red alert.
