Army Confirms Killing Of Officer, Soldier By Suspected Sea Pirates In Rivers

Sani Usman-Nigerian Army

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death on Thursday of an officer, believed to be of the rank of a major and a soldier in an attack by unknown gunmen suspected to be sea pirates.

The deceased officer and soldier were of the Nigerian Army 2 Brigade, Port Harcourt.

Confirming the development yesterday, the Assistant Army Public Relations Officer of 2 Brigade, Captain Eli Lazarus, said in a statement:

“About 11:00 am today Thursday 17 March 16, troops on Patrol in Abonema, Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State had a fierce encounter with a group of unknown gunmen suspected to be sea pirates. Our men displayed extraordinary gallantry.

“Unfortunately, an officer and a soldier who sustained various degrees of injury during the encounter lost their lives.

We are in pursuit of the criminals and we will surely get them. All law abiding citizens are urged to remain calm and advised to go about their lawful activities.

“The army will continue to make necessary sacrifices to ensure sustainable peace and security of lives and property of everyone in the state”.