By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Kaduna
Two youths have been declared missing after they were swept away by a swollen river in Hayin Malam Bello community, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, following a heavy downpour.
The victims were reportedly attempting to cross the river on their way back from Kabala West on Saturday evening when the fast-rising water overwhelmed them.
Residents said the river, which was safe to cross earlier in the day, became dangerous after the rainfall as water levels rose rapidly and the current intensified.
A resident said the youths ignored warnings from bystanders who advised them not to enter the river because of the flooding.
“People warned them that the water level had risen, but they insisted they could cross. Unfortunately, they were swept away. We have been searching for them since then without success,” the resident said.
The incident has thrown the community into mourning, with residents joining emergency responders in the search for the missing youths.
Community leader, Alhaji Ibrahim Fage, confirmed the incident, describing it as tragic. He urged residents, especially young people, to avoid crossing rivers during the rainy season, warning that water levels can rise suddenly after heavy rainfall.
Search and rescue operations involving the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA) and the Kaduna State Fire Service were still ongoing as of Sunday.
Head of Operations, NEMA Kaduna Operations Office, Hajia Halima Daudu Sulaiman, said the search began at about 11 a.m. on Sunday and had continued for more than three hours without locating the victims.
She assured that rescue teams would sustain the operation until the missing youths are found.
