Mkpoikana Udoma 17 April 2017, Sweetcrude, Port Harcourt – The Joint Military Task Force operating in the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe, OPDS, has confirmed the killing of two soldiers during a gun duel with sea pirates in Ijawkiri, Kalabari area of Rivers State.
This came as the JTF said it has successfully destroyed 13 illegal refineries in Iyalama Adama, a border town between Rivers and Bayelsa State.
The Media Coordinator of the JTF, Major Abubakar Abdullahi, who confirmed the incident in a statement, however, said no arrest was made.
Abdullahi also said three soldiers sustained gun injuries, but efforts were on by the JTF to track the criminals.
According to the statement, “In continuation of its drive to accomplish its mandate, troops of Operation Delta Safe on patrol around Iyalama Adama area in Rivers State discovered and destroyed 13 illegal refineries.
“Sadly, our troops deployed at Creek Six Houseboat in Cawthorne Channel while responding to a distress call of sea robbers attack around Ijawkiri in Kalabari area of Rivers State engaged heavily armed sea robbers.
“Unfortunately, two gallant soldiers exhibited highest point of patriotism by paying the supreme price, while three others sustained gunshot injuries.
“Effort is ongoing by the JTF to track and apprehend the criminals.”
