Navy rescues eight police officers and one civilian as boat capsizes in Bayelsa

The Nigerian Navy has rescued eight police officers and one civilian following a boat accident near the Agbura community in Bayelsa State.

The passengers were en route to Yenagoa but encountered trouble when their speedboat struck a submerged wreck and capsized.

The Director of Naval Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, in a statement on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, said the swift response of Navy personnel deployed in the area ensured the successful recovery of all nine individuals and three rifles belonging to the police officers.

“On December 24, 2024, Nigerian Navy Personnel deployed around Agbura community Bayelsa State successfully conducted a search and rescue operation and rescued the 9 passengers comprising 8 Police Officers and one Civilian along with 3 rifles belonging to the police officers,” the statement read. 

“The officers were en route to Yenagoa when their speed boat hit a submerged wreck and capsized. Subsequently, first aid was administered to those injured and were subsequently transferred to the Federal Medical Centre Yenagoa for further medical treatment. 

“However, the submerged wreckage that caused the incident was noted and marked to prevent further occurrences.

“The recovered weapons were documented and secured awaiting proper handing and taking over to the Nigerian Police Force Bayelsa State Command. This successful rescue operation underscores the synergy and collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and security agencies.”

The spokesperson noted that the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, commended the swift and professional response of the personnel involved.