The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the tragic deaths of two adults and a toddler after a passenger boat capsized on Sunday evening en route from Port Harcourt to Bonny Island in Bonny Local Government Area (LGA).
The command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday that 19 passengers were rescued alive from the boat, which was carrying 22 passengers at the time of the accident.
“A sudden ocean storm caused high waves, leading to the mishap,” Iringe-Koko explained. “The bodies of the three victims, including a young girl, have been recovered, and investigations into the incident are ongoing.”
The boat reportedly capsized near the Yellow Platform close to Bonny, a known route for maritime travel in the region.
In a separate statement, the Chairman of Bonny Local Government Council, Mr. Anengi Claude-Wilcox, confirmed the incident and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
“The preliminary investigation revealed that the boat’s captain lost control due to the unexpected oceanic storm. The survivors were rushed to the hospital for treatment at the council’s expense,” the statement read.
Claude-Wilcox also disclosed concerns over reports of another passenger boat refusing to assist in rescue efforts. “We urge anyone with information about the driver of that boat to contact the council secretary,” he added.
The council chairman emphasized the need for strict adherence to safety protocols by boat operators and passengers to prevent future tragedies.
Authorities and local stakeholders are collaborating to investigate the incident further and improve safety measures for waterway transportation in the area.
