Sixteen military personnel have been killed during a communal clash in Delta State.

The Defence Headquarters on Saturday, March 16, 2024 stated that the Commanding Officer, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 soldiers died in the clash.

The military personnel met their deaths while responding to a distress call during a clash between Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State on Thursday.

Director, Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, in a statement on Saturday, said the community youths attacked the soldiers while the troops were on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi Local Government Area.

Gusau said that the commanding officer of the troops died in the attack.

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“The troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State while on a 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.”

Already, the Chief of Defence Staff ( CDS), General Christopher Musa has directed the immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime.

The DHQ said 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,” Gusua said.

The Star