The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the deaths of two adults and a toddler in a passenger boat mishap that occurred on Sunday evening.
Spokesperson for the State Police Command,, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed the tragic incident to the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday in Port Harcourt.
Iringe-Koko revealed that 19 passengers were successfully rescued from the boat, which was en route from Port Harcourt to Bonny Island in Bonny Local Government Area.
The accident was caused by an ocean storm that triggered large waves, leading to the boat capsizing.
“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,” she stated.
She described the situation as a tragedy and confirmed that the mishap occurred near the Yellow Platform close to Bonny.
Iringe-Koko added that an investigation has been initiated to uncover more details about the incident.
In a statement released by the Bonny Local Government Council, its Chairperson, Anengi Claude-Wilcox, also addressed the tragic event.
The council’s secretary, John Gabriel-Pepple, conveyed the chairperson’s findings.
“The council’s preliminary investigation revealed that the boat captain lost control after a sudden rise in the oceanic storm,” Gabriel-Pepple stated on behalf of Claude-Wilcox. “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.”
Additionally, the chairperson mentioned an ongoing investigation regarding the involvement of another passenger boat reportedly at the scene.
“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,” Claude-Wilcox urged.
The council further emphasized the importance of adhering to safety measures, urging both boat operators and passengers to prioritize caution during travel to prevent such tragedies in the future.
