Police confirm 7 dead, 6 still missing in Niger boat mishap

By: Zagazola Makama

The Niger State Police Command has confirmed that seven persons have died and six others are still missing following a boat mishap in Shiroro Local Government Area.

The command said the incident occurred on July 26, when a boat conveying 37 passengers from Shaita Village to the weekly market in Kwata, Zumba, capsized.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that 26 passengers were rescued alive during a coordinated rescue operation.

“Seven lifeless bodies were recovered from the river, while the search for the remaining six missing persons is still ongoing,” said the sources.

The command assured that marine police, local divers, and community volunteers are intensifying efforts to recover the remaining victims.

The police urged boat operators to always adhere to safety protocols and avoid overloading.

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