Police save two people after boat sinks in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police have saved two people after a boat sank in the Ibaka waterways in Mbo Local Government Area.

This happened around 1:30 p.m. on Thursday. A blue W23 speedboat named "LET’S PRAY" went down while it was traveling from Oron to Cameroon with goods.

Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, shared this news in a statement on Friday in Uyo.

John explained that early investigations revealed the boat driver, Mr. Daniel, was trying to fix the vessel’s seacock to drain water when the boat sank.

Waves from a passing boat made the vessel unstable. This caused it to take in more water and sink.

The Marine Police Operational and Surveillance Patrol Team was patrolling the area when they rescued the driver and his conductor, Mr. Kani.

The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, praised the Marine Police for their quick action. He said their response prevented a loss of life.

Azare advised boat operators and passengers to focus on safety. He urged them to make sure boats are in good condition, avoid overloading, and provide life jackets for everyone.

He also reminded those using the waterways to be careful in busy areas.

The police command plans to keep increasing patrols and surveillance on the waterways with other security agencies to protect lives and property.