Sen. Thomas: Soldiers Killed in Delta Were on Rescue Mission for Kidnapped Victim

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas Calls for Investigation into Soldiers’ Deaths in DeltaSenator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South Senatorial District, has urged for a thorough investigation into the tragic murder of 16 military personnel in Okuama Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.In a statement released on Sunday in Warri, Senator Thomas condemned the act, describing it as “a crisis taken too far.” He highlighted that the military operatives were on a peace mission to rescue Mr. Anthony Aboh, who had reportedly been kidnapped in the community.As the Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Thomas expressed his condolences to the military authority and families of the slain soldiers. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation to uncover the root causes of the crisis. Additionally, he called upon both the state and federal governments to urgently intervene to prevent further escalation.”There is a need for the security agencies to go after the masterminds of this heinous crime,” Senator Thomas stated. “The military should deploy intelligence tactically to track down the perpetrators and prevent further loss of innocent lives in Okuama Community.”Expressing sympathy towards those affected by the crisis, Senator Thomas urged the people of Okuama Community to collaborate with the military in identifying the killers of the gallant soldiers.The Nigerian Army had previously confirmed the deaths of 16 soldiers in the conflict between the military and youths of the community. The casualties included a Commanding Officer, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 other soldiers, as stated in a release by the acting Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau.