Army confirms death of 2 officers, 4 soldiers in Niger terrorists ambush

The deaths of 2 officers and 4 soldiers after a terrorist ambush in Niger state have been confirmed by the Nigerian Army.

The army personnel of 1 Division of the Nigerian soldiers deployed to Allewa and Erena were killed on April 19, while on a fighting patrol to Karaga Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of the state.

Maj. Gen. Onyema, the army spokesperson, Nwachukwu, announced this on Sunday, April 21.

He said: “Troops gallantly fought through the ambush and eliminated several of the terrorists as well as captured some of their equipment.

“Sadly, the troops suffered a temporary setback as 6 personnel comprising 2 officers and 4 soldiers paid the supreme price.

“The General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander Operation Whirl Punch, Maj Gen Landers Saraso has on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff sympathized with the families of the slained personnel and promised them that the unfortunate setback will be avenged by the troops.

“He said the troops are currently trailing some of the terrorists who survived and fled after the encounter. He urged the good people of the State to go about their legitimate and lawful activities and reassured them that the Nigerian Army and other security agencies will ensure their protection at all times.”

Nwachukwu claims that, in line with the army customs and traditions, had contacted the Next of Kins of the fallen heroes, while burial was conducted for the slained Muslim personnel with the consent and approval of their family members.

He said Maj Gen Kelvin Aligbe, Commander Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), represented the Chief of Army Staff at the burial at Minna Military Cantonment Cemetery.

Nwachukwu said: “The Deputy Governor, representative of the COAS, GOC, and other senior officers also visited the two wounded soldiers receiving medical attention at the Military Hospital and subsequently paid a condolence visit to the families of the deceased.”