Eight policemen and a civilian who were onboard an ill-fated boat that capsized in Bayelsa on Christmas eve were rescued by operatives of the Nigerian Navy (NN).
The speedboat said to be going to Yenegoa, the Bayelsa State capital, capsized around Agbura community after hitting a submerged wreck.
A statement on Monday, by the Director of Naval Information (DINFO), Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, said three service rifles belonging to the policemen were also recovered from the accident scene and documented.
Adams-Aliu said: “On 24 December 2024, Nigerian Navy Personnel deployed around Agbura community Bayelsa State successfully conducted a search and rescue operation and rescued the nine passengers comprising eight Police Officers and one Civilian along with three rifles belonging to the police officers.
“The officers were enroute Yenagoa, when their speed boat hit a submerged wreck and capsized. Subsequently, first aid was administered to those injured and were subsequently transferred to the Federal Medical Centre Yenagoa for further medical treatment.
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“However, the submerged wreckage that caused the incident was noted and marked to prevent further occurrences. The recovered weapons were documented and secured awaiting proper handing and taking over to the Nigeria Police Force Bayelsa State Command.
“This successful rescue operation underscores the synergy and collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and security agencies. The Nigerian Navy remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring safety on the nation’s waterways and fostering collaboration with other security stakeholders to enhance national security.
“The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, reiterates the Navy’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians within the maritime domain. The CNS also commended the swift response and professionalism of the personnel involved in this operation.”
