The Acting Director, Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, says some allegedly youths ambushed and killed 16 officers and men of the 181 Amphibious Battalion of the Nigerian Army on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta state on Thursday.
Gusau revealed this on Saturday in Abuja, adding that those killed were the commanding officer, two majors, one captain and 12 soldiers.
He said that the troops were ambushed and killed while responding to a distress call arising from a clash between Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta.
According to him, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, had ordered an immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime.
He further stated that the incident had been reported to the Delta State Government.
“The military, however, 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 have been taken to unravel the motive behind the attack,’’ he assured.