Numerous residences in the coastal and quaint Okuoma community, situated in the Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, were engulfed in flames shortly after the tragic loss of 16 soldiers on a peacekeeping mission.
The Director of Information at the Defence Headquarters, Tukur Gusau, in a statement on Saturday, said the military personnel comprising a lieutenant colonel, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers were killed by youths on Thursday.
“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,” Gusau said.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, had ordered an immediate investigation into the incident.
In a video posted by Channels Television, black smoke could be seen billowing from some buildings in the community, as flames flickered in the distance.
Some residents of the community have also fled for fear of reprisal attacks from military personnel.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori condemned the incident, promising to “fish out” the perpetrators.
