By Philip Nwosu
The Nigerian Navy said its operatives have successfully rescued nine passengers, including eight police officers and one civilian, who were involved in a boat accident near Agbura community in Bayelsa State.
A statement by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, revealed that the Navy also recovered three rifles belonging to the policemen during the search and rescue operation.
The mishap occurred when a speedboat ferrying the police officers to Yenagoa capsized after hitting a submerged wreck. Tragically, the officers were thrown overboard.
The Navy personnel quickly responded, rescuing the victims and administering first aid to those injured. The injured passengers were later transferred to the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa for further medical attention.
To prevent similar incidents, the submerged wreck responsible for the accident was identified and marked.
The rifles recovered from the scene were documented and secured, pending formal handover to the Bayelsa State Police Command.
Commodore Adams-Aliu highlighted the seamless collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies, noting that the operation demonstrated the Navy’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the nation’s waterways.
Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), praised the swift and professional response of the personnel involved in the rescue mission. He reiterated the Navy’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property within Nigeria’s maritime domain and fostering strong partnerships with other security stakeholders to enhance national security.
This successful rescue mission underscores the importance of synergy between security agencies in addressing challenges and ensuring the safety of citizens.