11 soldiers killed in Benue, Nigerian Army confirms

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the killing of 11 soldiers in Benue State.

This was disclosed in a statement released to newsmen on Thursday in Abuja.

The statement was signed by Director, Army Public Relations, Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Yerima. 1st News had earlier reported that eight soldiers on a peace mission were killed by yet-to-be identified gunmen in Benue State.

However, the Army has now revealed that the death toll is higher.

Yerima revealed that an officer and 10 soldiers were among the casualties; adding that they were on a stabilisation operation in Benue State. He stated that the troops were initially declared missing; which led to the deployment of a joint search and rescue team. The search party comprised army troops and personnel of Operation Whirl Stroke.

Further, the Army spokesman disclosed that the search and rescue team unfortunately found all the missing troops dead; with the bodies discovered in Konshisha Local Government Area of the state. He revealed that the bodies of the slain troops were evacuated immediately; adding that efforts are ongoing to track down the perpetrators of the heinous crime with a view to bringing them to justice.

Yerima said that Nigerian Army under the leadership of the Lt.-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru would remain resolute in ensuring stability in Benue; as well as other parts of the country that are affected by the activities of criminal gangs. In addition, he assured that the army authority was determined to ensure that the unprovoked attack does not disrupt the general peace being enjoyed by the local inhabitants.

Consequently, he revealed that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) has directed commanders on the ground to ensure sustained efforts to fish out and deal decisively with these bad elements who are threatening the peace in the area.

“It may be recalled that Benue which was a hot bed for violent clashes has been enjoying relative peace; following the successes achieved by the various security agencies who have been working tirelessly to safeguard law abiding citizens and ensure they go about their legitimate business without fear of harassment by criminals.

“The Nigerian army appeals to the public to volunteer useful information that will lead to the arrest of the perpetrators of this dastardly act,” he said