Six soldiers including two top ranking officers have been killed in an ambush by terrorists in Kagara, Shiroro Local government area of Niger State.
The soldiers from the army personnel 1 Division Nigerian Army, were on a combat mission when they ran into the ambush on April 19.
“Troops gallantly fought through the ambush and eliminated several of the terrorists as well as captured some of their equipment,” said Nigeria Army spokesperson, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu on Sunday.
“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 deceased 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.”
According to Nwachukwu, the army, in line with its customs and traditions, had contacted the Next of Kins of the fallen heroes, while burial was conducted for the deceased Muslim personnel with the consent and approval of their family members.
“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.”
