Five Dead, 30 Rescued In Anambara Boat Mishap

Awka, Anambra State– No fewer than 5 people have died, while 30 others were rescued after a boat carrying 35 individuals capsized on the River Niger water.

The boat was travelling from Kogi State through the River Niger when it capsized in Anambra.

Passers-by gathered at the scene to rescue victims out of the river near the Onitsha banks.

A source said: “There was a boat that capsized at River Niger. Some of the victims are from parts of Kogi State and Mmiata Anam in Anambra East Local Government Area, according to the eyewitnesses.”

The Anambra State Police spokesman, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, who confirmed the development, said the situation was under control.

Ikenga said, “The situation is under control. Our marine operatives, on getting the distress call about the incident, responded swiftly.

“We were able to rescue over 30 of the passengers alive and recovered the five lifeless bodies in the depths of the sea and the capsized boat.

“Preliminary information revealed that the boat was from Kogi State, conveying goods and passengers before the unfortunate incident occurred.

“Meanwhile, the cause is yet to be ascertained as the investigation is ongoing, please.”