Eric Patrick
The Nigerian Navy has rescued ninety-nine passengers following an incident where a market boat collided head-on with a barge while traveling to the Akulu Toru Local Government Area.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Commander, NNS Pathfinder, Commodore, Cajethan Aniaku on Wednesday.
Aniaku noted that the incident occurred in Tuma, some three hundred meters away from Naval security station NNS 35 along the Bukuma Rivers axis.
First News correspondent learnt that operatives of NNS Pathfinder deployed to the Naval security station 35 in collaboration with four other Naval gunboats launched a coordinated search and rescue operation, leading to the rescue of all ninety nine passengers on board.
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The statement further added that despite the challenging conditions, the operative acted effectively towards the rescue of lives and avert maritime disaster in the state.
Aniaku also stressed that the exceptional composure, timely intervention, and bravery displayed by the Naval rescue team are worthy of commendation.
The Nigerian Navy has emphasised that, under the guidance of the current Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, it remains committed to safeguarding the security and safety of mariners in the nation’s maritime waters.