Three dead, 19 rescued as boat capsizes in Rivers

At least three persons have died in a boat mishap in Rivers state.

The incident occurred on Sunday evening after a boat travelling from Port Harcourt to Bonny Island capsized.

In a statement on Tuesday, Grace Iringe-Koko, the police spokesperson in Rivers, said 19 passengers were rescued.

Iringe-Koko noted that a sudden ocean storm triggered high waves which led to the mishap.

The police spokesperson added that the command has commenced an investigation of the incident.

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

“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 LGA, commiserated with the families of the deceased, while urging travellers and boat operators to adhere to safety protocols to prevent future occurrences.

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

“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,” Claude-Wilcox said.

“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.”