Rivers Police Investigate Boat Tragedy in Kula Kingdom

The Rivers State Police confirmed a boat accident in Kula Kingdom, Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, resulting in the reported deaths of 10 individuals. Police spokesperson ASP Agabe Karborlo stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact number of casualties and the circumstances of the incident.

The accident occurred on Tuesday evening amid tensions regarding the planned recovery of the vessel Anambra Basin FSO and allegations of oil pollution in the community. Sukubo Sara-Igbe, President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, claimed that six gunboats arrived during the operation, leading to a confrontation that caused a community boat to capsize.

He reported that 10 lives were lost, including two local security personnel. Calls for an investigation have been made by community leaders, including Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe.

Max Shipping Services Limited, the vessel's owner, denied any operational involvement in the incident and clarified that the vessel was hired to Menal Technical Services Limited.