The Nigerian Navy has rescued eleven passengers from a sinking passenger boat along the Bonny River in Rivers State.
The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday when the boat developed engine trouble mid way through the trip and began to take in water, putting the lives of passengers at risk.
The boat was said to have taken off from the Nembe Waterside Jetty in Port Harcourt and was heading to Coal Beach Jetty on Bonny Island when the engine failed. According to eyewitnesses, panic broke out among the passengers as the vessel became unstable on the water. One passenger said that the boat “suddenly stopped and started sinking before help came.”
Operatives of the Nigerian Navy from the Forward Operating Base in Bonny quickly responded to the distress call and rescued eleven passengers, made up of six males and five females. The Navy team reportedly evacuated the passengers to reduce the weight on the boat before securing it to prevent a complete capsize.
After the rescue operation, the victims were taken to the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Jetty where they were given medical attention. They were later handed over to Marine Police officials who ensured they were reunited with their families.
The Navy explained that the swift response formed part of its ongoing efforts to ensure safety on waterways and protect travellers from marine accidents. Officials noted that routine patrols have been intensified to enhance maritime security and quick response to emergencies within the Niger Delta coastline.
Residents of Rivers State have commended the Navy for the timely intervention, saying the prompt rescue helped avert what could have been a major tragedy. They also urged boat operators to carry out proper safety checks before embarking on trips to reduce avoidable accidents on waterways.
