Nigerian Tugboat Incident: One Dead, 12 Rescued in SA

A maritime incident involving the Nigerian tugboat Leo occurred late Saturday night off the South African coast, approximately 18 nautical miles offshore. The vessel was carrying 18 people when it reportedly ran aground in stormy waters while returning to Lagos from Durban.

The Federal Government of Nigeria confirmed the death of one Nigerian, while 12 others were rescued, and five individuals remain unaccounted for. The confirmation came through a press statement signed by Dr.

Magnu Ez Mondai, the Special Assistant on Communications to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu disclosed that the South African Ministry of Transport confirmed the rescue of 12 individuals.

The South African Maritime Safety Authority is currently overseeing the rescue operations, and survivors are being conveyed to Port Elizabeth. The Nigerian High Commission is in communication with relevant authorities regarding the incident.