3 Die – 19 Rescued As Boat Capsizes In Rivers

At least three people have died while nineteen were rescued in a boat mishap in Rivers state on Sunday evening.

Gatekeepers News reports that the incident occurred after a boat travelling from Port Harcourt to Bonny Island capsized.

Grace Iringe-Koko, police spokesperson in Rivers confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday.

Iringe-Koko noted that a sudden ocean storm triggered high waves which led to the mishap, adding that the command has commenced an investigation of the incident.

The statement reads, “There were 22 passengers on board the ill-fated boat, but unfortunately, three individuals lost their lives.”

“The bodies of the three victims, including a young girl, have been recovered.”

“The accident occurred near the Yellow Platform close to Bonny.”

Anengi Claude-Wilcox, chairman of Bonny Local Government Area (LGA) commiserated with the families of the deceased. He urged travellers and boat operators to adhere to safety protocols to prevent future occurrences.

Claude-Wilcox noted that the council was
collaborating with the police on the investigation.

He said, “The incident claimed the lives of two adults and a toddler, while 19 survivors were immediately taken to the hospital at the expense of the Bonny Council.”

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims.”

“Information reaching the council indicates that the passenger boat refused to assist in rescue efforts while the passengers from the capsized boat struggled to survive at sea.”

“We call on anyone with useful information about the driver of that boat to contact the council secretary.”