Toddler, others feared dead as boat capsizes in Delta

A devastating boat accident over the weekend at Beneth Island in the Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, has left eight confirmed dead, including a toddler, while more than 20 passengers remain missing.

The tragic incident occurred when a speedboat carrying passengers returning from a burial ceremony collided with a submerged log, causing it to capsize.

The impact threw passengers into the water, most of whom were not wearing life jackets and were unable to swim.

Eyewitnesses reported that the boat was moving at high speed at the time of the accident.

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The lifeless body of a one-year-old child was later found floating in the creek, adding to the anguish of the families affected.

Survivors described terrifying moments of struggle as they fought to stay afloat. Sadly, many passengers drowned almost immediately, while others disappeared into the murky water.

Search and rescue teams have been dispatched to the site, but the fate of the missing passengers remains uncertain, and hopes of finding survivors are dwindling with time.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, has urged for patience as authorities work to confirm details of the tragedy. Meanwhile, families of the victims remain devastated, holding on to faint hopes of reuniting with their loved ones.

(Leadership)