Five people were confirmed missing after two boats capsized in the Imore area of Lagos State on Monday night.
Eleven other passengers, who sustained injuries during the mishap, were rescued by police officers and local divers who were mobilized to the scene.
According to reports, the two boats, which were loaded with goods, collided on the water, causing them to capsize.
The Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the incident to journalists, adding that efforts were ongoing to recover the missing occupants of the boats.
Hundeyin stated, “On 07/10/2024 at about 19:00 hours, a distress call was received at Ilashe division that two unregistered passenger boats, both carrying passengers, allegedly collided in the middle of the lagoon at Imore town. As a result, the boats capsized, and the passengers, along with the goods, went under.
“Based on this report, teams of conventional and marine police officers, local divers, and other emergency responders were swiftly mobilized to the scene. Eleven passengers were rescued with injuries and taken to the Naval Hospital, Navy Town, Alakija, for medical attention, while search and rescue efforts continue to recover the bodies of the remaining victims.”
He also mentioned that an investigation into the incident was ongoing.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Command is appealing to the public for any additional information that could assist in the ongoing rescue efforts or the investigation.
This tragic incident has once again raised concerns about the safety standards of water transport in Lagos, with many calling for stricter enforcement of maritime safety laws.
