Pirates attack boat, kill one in Rivers

Suspected pirates have attacked a passenger boat and killed one of the occupants along the Billie waterways in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State.

A native of the community simply identified as Bebe told newsmen in Port Harcourt that the boat took off from Bille and heading to Port Harcourt when it was attacked.

He said the suspected pirates opened fire on the boat on Friday evening, saying the corpse of the dead victim has been recovered, while one passenger was rescued.

Bebe said, “The passengers boat was going to Port Harcourt from Billie before they were attacked by gunmen.

“We have entered the water and succeeded in rescuing one person. We have also recovered one corpse which we have taken back to the community.”

He called on Rivers State Government and security agencies to beef up security along the waterways to forestall frequent attacks and provide security for sea travellers.

When contacted, spokesperson of the state police command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident to our correspondent on telephone on Saturday.

Iringe-Koko said one of the victims who sustained gunshot injury is receiving treatment in as undisclosed hospital in Port Harcourt.

She said, “Yes, the command is aware of the incident. It was pirates..Only one person was killed.

“We have commenced investigation to ascertain what happened and ensure that those behind the dastardly act would be apprehended and made them to face the law.”