The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 11 individuals following a tragic boat mishap on River Benue, which claimed 20 lives in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
The incident occurred on Saturday night when a wooden canoe, carrying traders across the river to Odenyi in Nasarawa State, capsized after colliding with a tree midway through the journey.
The victims, who had just finished trading at the Ocholonya market in Agatu LGA, set off around 8 pm. Sources indicate that the canoe was overloaded, and despite the late hour, passengers ignored pleas to disembark, as they were eager to return home.
Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Catherine Anene, confirmed the tragedy, stating that 20 bodies had been recovered from the river. She also noted that rescue operations are still ongoing, with 11 people having been rescued alive.
