By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Dutse
The death toll from the boat accident in Malamawa community, ‘Yan Dutse District of Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State, has risen to six, while 15 passengers have been rescued as search operations continue for those still missing.
The Director of Planning, Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Muhammad Garingabas, confirmed on Monday that six bodies had been recovered from the scene, adding that rescue teams were still combing the waterway for other victims.
The tragedy occurred when a canoe carrying several passengers capsized while crossing a river in the Malamawa area.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Lawan Shiisu Adam, also confirmed the casualty figure, saying six people lost their lives in the incident.
Authorities said 15 passengers were rescued through the joint efforts of local divers, community volunteers and emergency responders.
Garingabas said search and rescue operations were ongoing, expressing hope that more victims would be found.
The Jigawa State Government, through SEMA, urged residents of riverine communities to comply with safety measures, including avoiding overloaded boats and wearing life jackets to reduce the risk of similar accidents.
The incident has left the Malamawa community in mourning as families await news of relatives still unaccounted for.
