The Nigerian Army in Rivers State has confirmed that it lost an officer and a soldier after a fierce encounter with a group  of unknown gunmen suspected to be sea pirates.

 In a press statement providing insight into the rumours of uncertainty raging  in Port Harcourt, the State capital Captain Eli Lazarus,  Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 2nd Brigade Nigerian Army, Port Harcout explained that at about 11am today,  Thursday 17 March 2016, Troops on Patrol in Abonemma, Akolu Toru LGA of Rivers State had a fierce encounter with a group of unknown gunmen

 "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." the statement affirmed