Bonny, Rivers State: Operatives from the Forward Operations Base (FOB) in Bonny, Rivers State have successfully rescued 59 individuals from a dredging vessel that was in danger of sinking at the mouth of the Opobo River.
According to a statement by Nigerian Navy spokesman Aiwuyor Aliu-Adams, the base received a distress call about the vessel, MV AMBIKA 4, which was contracted to Sterling Global Oil Limited for operations at the Opobo field. Known for its turbulent waters during this period, the Opobo River posed significant challenges to the rescue operation.
A 10-man armed team led by Base Operations Officer Lieutenant Commander Gideon Gwaza was immediately dispatched to the scene. Despite facing treacherous waves, the team, reinforced by an additional three boats, managed to rescue all 59 crew members.
To support the operation, the Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA, drones, and helicopters, along with an Air Force helicopter, were deployed. Unfortunately, Lieutenant Commander Gwaza lost his life during the rescue mission.
The Nigerian Navy expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the officer, who was a highly trained combat diver. His bravery and sacrifice in saving the lives of others exemplify the dedication of naval personnel to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain.
