Six more people have been confirmed dead following a boat accident on River Benue near Ocholonya in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
The spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, Catherine Anene, provided an update on Monday, stating that the death toll has now risen to 20, while rescue operations continue.
“As of 4 p.m. today, December 16, 2024, six individuals have been confirmed dead, while three others remain missing. Earlier, 11 people were rescued unhurt, while 10 others were found unconscious.
Out of the unconscious victims, eight were successfully resuscitated and are currently receiving treatment. Sadly, two were confirmed dead and their bodies have been deposited at the mortuary,” Anene said.
She added that the search and rescue operation is ongoing to locate the three passengers still unaccounted for.
Meanwhile, Ezekiel Manzo, spokesperson for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), revealed that the boat was carrying 76 passengers at the time of the incident.
Rescue efforts are being intensified as authorities continue to search for survivors and recover bodies.