Nigeria confirms 16 military personnel killed in attack in restive Delta region

By Timothy Olanrewaju

MAIDUGURI, Nigeria (AA) - Nigeria confirmed the killing Saturday of 16 military personnel, including four officers and soldiers in a response mission in the Delta region where communal fighting occurred.

Troops from the 181 Amphibious Battalion on a peace mission to the Okuoma community in Bomadi Local Government were surrounded and killed by youngsters, according to Defence Headquarters spokesman Brig, Gen. Tukur Gusau.

"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," Gusau said in a statement.

He said a reinforcement team led by a commanding officer (CO) was also attacked, bringing the number of military personnel killed to 16, including the commanding officer, two majors, a captain and 12 soldiers.

The Chief of Defence Staff has ordered a thorough investigation.

Nigeria's Delta sits on a large deposit of crude oil with the presence of many oil wells.

It has led to environmental pollution and increasing unrest by youngsters and community members who constantly protest or fight for control of oil areas.