Bennett River Disaster Averted As Navy Rescues Three From Capsized Boat

Rita Enemuru, Reporting 

A major waterway tragedy was narrowly avoided on Sunday after the Nigerian Navy rescued three passengers from a capsized boat following a violent rainstorm that unleashed dangerous waves along the Bennett River in Warri, Delta State.

The dramatic rescue operation was conducted by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) DELTA during a routine maritime security patrol aimed at safeguarding lives and property on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

According to Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, the incident occurred when the passenger vessel encountered severe weather conditions.

The heavy rainstorm generated turbulent waves that destabilised the boat, forcing it to overturn and leaving passengers stranded in the treacherous waters.

Within moments, the calm waterway transformed into an emergency scene as debris from the wrecked vessel scattered across the river.

However, the Navy patrol team, already deployed in the area, detected signs of distress and immediately mobilised for action. The naval personnel abandoned their routine patrol mission and launched an emergency search and rescue operation.

Despite the challenging weather conditions, the team successfully located the victims and recovered all three passengers alive from the dangerous waters. The operation also saw the recovery of important items from the wreckage, reducing further losses suffered by the victims.

Following the rescue, the passengers were swiftly transported to the NNS DELTA Sick Bay, where Navy medical personnel provided immediate medical attention. After stabilisation and medical assessment, the three survivors were discharged.

The Nigerian Navy described the successful operation as further evidence of its expanding role as both a maritime security force and a critical first responder during emergencies. Beyond its responsibility of maintaining security on Nigeria’s waterways, the Navy continues to support riverine communities through patrols, rescue operations, and rapid response interventions.

The latest incident has once again highlighted the risks faced by thousands of Nigerians who depend on inland waterways for transportation and economic activities, especially during extreme weather conditions.

The Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe maritime environment while ensuring that lives remain protected across Nigeria’s coastal and riverine communities.