Two soldiers are missing and their colleague dead after rampaging militants attacked troops deployed in the Cross River State.
The militants in speedboats, said to belong to Bakassi Strike Force led by wanted alleged criminal kingpin, Benjamin Simplee, attacked the troops stationed at Efut Esighi waterfront.
Besides the human casualties, the militants, who lost two members during the exchange of gunfire, also burnt a military vehicle during the attack.
Troops said some suspected militants escaped with gunshot wounds.
Reinforcements have been sent to find the missing soldiers.
In addition, the troops location have been reinforced with more gunboats and air component.
“We would like to assure the public that this singular act would not deter us from the discharge of our duties, therefore, the perpetrators of this dastardly act would be found and brought to justice,” said Army spokesperson, Sani Kukasheka Usman.
“The Nigerian Army wishes to send an unequivocal warning to all the criminal elements in the society that intent to attack any of its locations to have a review.”
Militants have carried out renewed attacks against international oil companies in the Niger Delta.
They allege widespread pollution and degradation after decades of oil extraction and argue government is marginalising the region.
