The Nigerian Army this evening confirmed the death of two soldiers in a gun battle with suspected sea pirates.

Captain Eli Lazarus, Assistant Director Army Public Relations 2nd Brigade Nigerian Army

Port-Harcourt, said in a statement: “At about 11am today, Thursday 17 March 2016, Troops on Patrol in Abonemma, Akuku Toru LGA of Rivers State had a fierce encounter with a group of unknown gunmen suspected to be sea pirates.

“Our men displayed extraordinary gallantry during the encounter. Unfortunately, an officer and a soldier who sustained various degree of injury lost their lives.

“We are in pursuit of the criminals and we will surely get them.

“All law abiding citizens are urged to remain calm and go about their lawful activities.

“The Army will continue to make necessary sacrifices to ensure sustainable peace and security of lives and property of everyone in the state.”