A Hilux van transporting two company employees, including a foreign national, tragically plunged into the Okulu River on Monday night while evading suspected kidnappers on the Eleme section of the East-West Road in Rivers State. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the driver lost control following an armed attack on the convoy, leading to the vehicle skidding off the bridge and into the river.
As of Tuesday afternoon, both the van and its occupants remained trapped while rescue efforts were in progress. The Chairman of Eleme Local Government Area, Brian Gokpa, promptly mobilized a rescue team and coordinated with operatives from the Nigerian Navy and other agencies to retrieve the vehicle and individuals.
Professional divers and marine police have also joined the rescue mission, working diligently to recover the victims and the van from the river. The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, arrived at the scene around 11 am on Tuesday, commending Gokpa for his quick actions in mobilizing security forces and rescue teams.
Gokpa emphasized his dedication to protecting lives and property in the region, pledging to enhance the capabilities of personnel involved in ongoing rescue efforts and ensure that those responsible for the attack face justice.
Concerns over the deteriorating condition of the East-West Road and the absence of railing on bridges, attributed to vandalism, have raised alarms about the road’s safety. The area has gained notoriety for kidnappings, accidents, and other criminal activities.
Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident, stating investigations are underway. “Yes, I can confirm the incident. The Commissioner of Police has visited the scene. Updates will be provided as soon as available,” she stated.
Authorities continue their search and rescue operations, focusing on recovering the vehicle and its occupants while investigations into the attack progress.
