Benue Boat Mishap: 11 Rescued, 6 Confirmed Dead, 3 Still Missing – Police
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that 11 persons were rescued unhurt following a tragic boat mishap that occurred on Saturday in River Benue, Agatu Local Government Area.
This was disclosed in a statement on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Catherine Anene.
Anene revealed that while 11 individuals were initially pulled from the water, ten of them were found unconscious. Eight of the unconscious victims were successfully resuscitated and are currently responding to treatment, while two others were confirmed dead and their bodies deposited at the mortuary.
“On Monday, four more corpses were recovered, bringing the death toll to six as of 4 p.m. on December 16, 2024,” Anene stated.
She further noted that search efforts are ongoing, with three persons still missing.
The accident, which occurred over the weekend, reportedly claimed the lives of about 20 people initially. Local divers and community members quickly mobilized to rescue survivors from the waters.
The Benue State Police Command emphasized that rescue operations remain in full swing, with efforts being intensified to locate the remaining missing persons.
Authorities are urging caution among boat operators and river commuters to prevent future incidents, particularly as the dry season increases river traffic across the region.
The mishap has left the Agatu community in mourning, with residents calling for improved safety measures, including the use of life jackets and stricter regulations for boat operators.
