At least three people have lost their lives in a tragic boat accident in Rivers State.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening when a boat traveling from Port Harcourt to Bonny Island capsized amid high waves triggered by a sudden ocean storm.
According to a statement from Grace Iringe-Koko, the Rivers State police spokesperson, 19 passengers were rescued from the water.
The boat, which had 22 passengers on board, capsized near the Yellow Platform close to Bonny Island. Unfortunately, three passengers, including a young girl, drowned.
Iringe-Koko confirmed that the police has launched an investigation into the cause of the incident.
In a separate statement, Anengi Claude-Wilcox, Chairman of Bonny Local Government Area, expressed his condolences to the families of the victims.
He also urged boat operators and travelers to adhere to safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
Claude-Wilcox further revealed that the local government was working with the police on the investigation.
He confirmed that 19 survivors were taken to the hospital at the Bonny Council’s expense, while the local authorities continued to gather information regarding a boat that allegedly refused to assist in rescue efforts.
The council is urging anyone with information about the boat’s captain to come forward.
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