Nigeria Loses Col Ali, Two Majors And 13 Others, Killed In Special Operation In Delta State

The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the killing of Lt. Col. AH Ali, a commanding officer of the Nigerian Army.

He was killed along with two majors and 12 soldiers while on a peace mission in Delta State.

They were killed by irate youths of Okuoma community in Bamodi, Delta State.

Deceased Ali until his brutal murder also works in the North East, and he is adjudged as one of the best officers in the fight against insurgency in the region.

He was reportedly among the officers who dislodged Abubakar Shekau’s major strongholds, including those of ISWAP over the last few years.

According to a release by Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, defence spokesperson, the officer and his men were killed on Thursday.

‘The troops of 181 Amphibious Batallion, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State While on peace mission to OkUOMA community in BOMADI LGA of Delta State were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, 14 March, 2024.

‘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.

‘The reinforcement team led by the commanding officer was also attacked, leading to the death of the commanding officer, two majors, one captain and 12 soldiers,’ Gusau said.

He added that ‘the Chief of Defence Staff ( CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa has directed the immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime. The occurrence has been reported to the Delta State Govt.’

He reiterated that the military 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 are reportedly in place to unravel the motive behind the attack.