Two passengers have been rescued by officers of the Marine Police after a boat mishap along the Ibaka waterways in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The incident occurred at about 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 17, 2026, when a blue W23 speedboat bearing the inscription “LET’S PRAY” and powered by a Yamaha outboard engine was travelling from Oron towards Cameroon while conveying goods.
According to the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, preliminary information indicated that the boat driver, identified as Mr Daniel, was attempting to adjust the vessel’s seacock to drain accumulated water when waves generated by a passing boat reportedly destabilised the vessel.
The boat subsequently took in more water and sank.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, said the driver and his conductor, identified as Mr Kani, were rescued by the Marine Police Operational and Surveillance Patrol Team, which was conducting patrol operations in the area at the time.
The swift intervention of the marine officers prevented the incident from resulting in further casualties.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the Marine Police personnel for their vigilance and prompt response.
He also urged boat operators and passengers across the state to prioritise safety by ensuring that vessels are seaworthy, avoiding overloading and exercising caution when navigating waterways with heavy marine traffic.
