Tragedy struck as armed assailants, suspected to be mercenaries from Okuoma community in Ughelli South council area of Delta state, ambushed and killed no fewer than 22 soldiers from the 181 Amphibious Battalion, Bomadi.
The soldiers were on a mission to rescue a kidnapped youth, Mr. Anthony Aboh, from neighboring Okoloba community, who was abducted amid a land dispute between the two communities.
According to reports, the soldiers were returning to their boats after a fruitless negotiation at Okuoma community hall when they were suddenly attacked by a barrage of bullets from all directions. The ambush resulted in the death of several military personnel, including a former honorable member from Okoloba community, who had alerted the Joint Task Force (JTF) about the kidnapping.
Among the confirmed casualties were one Lieutenant Colonel, two Majors, one Captain, and eighteen soldiers, including Maj Shafa, Maj Obi, Capt Zakari, and Lt. Col A. H. Ali. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has ordered an immediate investigation and arrest of those responsible for the attack, while also informing the Delta State Government of the incident.
The statement issued by the acting Director of Defence Information revealed that the troops responded to a distress call following a communal crisis between Okuama and Okoloba communities, leading to the tragic outcome. The reinforcements sent to assist were also targeted, resulting in the death of the Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 soldiers.
Despite the grim turn of events, the military remains committed to maintaining peace and security in the country, with efforts underway to apprehend the perpetrators and uncover the motive behind the attack. Sadly, the lifeless body of the kidnapped youth, Anthony Aboh, was recovered from River Forcados, adding to the sense of loss and sorrow surrounding the incident. Efforts to obtain comments from Okuoma community officials were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.