Eight people have been rescued alive following a boat collision in the Robertkiri waterways of Kula, Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State, as search and rescue operations continue for other passengers feared dead.
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when a tugboat and a speedboat carrying more than 15 people collided. About 10 people were initially feared dead.
Reports indicate that the victims were among community members protesting the departure of an oil vessel operated by Ibeto Group over alleged water pollution, unpaid payments to local vendors and outstanding royalties to host communities.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed that lives were lost in the incident but said investigations were ongoing to establish the exact number of casualties and the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
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Meanwhile, Ibeto Group, through its subsidiary, Max Shipping Services Limited, denied direct responsibility for the incident.
The company explained that the vessel, Anambra Basin FSO, had been hired to Menal Technical Services Limited and maintained that ownership of the vessel should not be confused with responsibility for its operations or community-related obligations.
The company expressed sympathy for the affected community and called for a thorough investigation, urging all parties to remain calm and avoid violence.
Search and rescue operations are expected to continue as families await further information about their missing loved ones.
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