Two people have been rescued after a boat travelling from Oron to Cameroon sank along the Ibaka waterways in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The incident occurred on Thursday at about 1:30pm when the blue W23 speedboat, marked “LET’S PRAY,” ran into trouble while carrying goods to Cameroon.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, said preliminary findings showed that the boat’s driver, Daniel, was attempting to drain water that had accumulated inside the vessel when waves from another boat caused it to become unstable.

The vessel subsequently flooded and sank.

Daniel and his deckhand, identified as Kani, were rescued by officers of the Marine Police Operational and Surveillance Patrol Team, who were conducting patrols along the waterways at the time.

John disclosed this in a statement issued in Uyo on Friday, saying the quick intervention of the officers prevented the incident from resulting in loss of life.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the marine police personnel for their vigilance and swift response.

Azare urged boat operators and passengers to prioritise safety by using seaworthy vessels, avoiding overloading and ensuring that everyone onboard has a life jacket.

He also advised those using the waterways to exercise caution, particularly in areas with heavy marine traffic.

The police command said it would continue to strengthen patrols and surveillance across the state’s waterways in collaboration with other security agencies to protect lives and property.