The Jigawa State Police Command has confirmed the death of five individuals and reported 15 others missing following a canoe mishap that occurred on Thursday in the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, DSP Lawan Shiisu, confirmed the incident in a statement released to the press in Dutse.
According to Shiisu, the tragic event took place at Nahuce, a village in Taura Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
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“At approximately 12:00 hours today, information from a reliable source indicated that a canoe carrying 20 passengers capsized while crossing the Gamoda River at Nahuce Village,” Shiisu stated.
Upon receiving the report, a team of policemen, along with local divers and good Samaritans, rushed to the scene to carry out a rescue mission.
The PPRO identified the deceased passengers as Abdurra’uf Mohammed, 15; Suleman Ali, 20; Shafiu Mohammed, 25; Ado Nafance, 7; and Alasan Mohmmed, 16, all from Taura LGA.
He further mentioned that efforts are ongoing to recover the remaining 15 passengers.
Shiisu added that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Ahmadu Abdullahi, has offered prayers for the repose of the souls of the deceased and asked for divine comfort for the bereaved families.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) also reports that this incident comes just one month after a similar tragedy occurred in Kwalgai Village, Auyo LGA, which resulted in the death of two people, while 18 others were rescued.
(NAN)
