A devastating boat accident in the Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State has resulted in a tragic loss of life, with at least five people confirmed dead and 20 others still unaccounted for. The catastrophic incident occurred on Monday evening, February 24, when two speedboats carrying passengers returning from a burial ceremony collided and capsized, plunging the occupants into the water.
Eyewitnesses described the harrowing scene, recounting that many of the passengers were not wearing life jackets, which may have exacerbated the severity of the disaster. The lack of safety measures on board the vessels has raised concerns about the regulatory oversight of water transportation in the region.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, with local divers and marine units working tirelessly to locate the missing persons. The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the accident, with spokesperson Edafe Bright stating that six survivors were rescued and are currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Warri.
As the investigation into the accident unfolds, authorities have launched a probe to determine the exact cause of the collision and to assess the safety protocols in place on water transport routes in the area. The tragedy has highlighted the need for enhanced safety measures and stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent such incidents in the future.
Source: Richard Nana Appiah Kubi/Ahotoronline.com
