At least five people have lost their lives, and 20 others remain missing after a tragic boat collision in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.
The incident, which occurred on Monday evening, involved two speedboats carrying passengers returning from a burial ceremony.
Eyewitnesses reported that many of the passengers were not wearing life jackets when the collision took place, raising concerns about safety measures on water transportation in the region.
The Delta State Police Command confirmed the unfortunate event, with the command’s spokesperson, Edafe Bright, revealing that six survivors were rescued with injuries. The injured victims are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital in Warri.
“This is a tragic accident, and we are working with marine units and local divers to locate the missing passengers,” Bright said.
A resident, who gave his name as Emmanuel Okoro, described the scene as chaotic, saying, “People were screaming for help. Some managed to swim to shore, but many others disappeared beneath the water.”
Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities and local volunteers search for the missing victims.
