Police Rescue Seven Children and Two Adults from Flood, One Child Missing

The police in Anambra State have rescued seven school children and two adults trapped by flood along Nibo-Isiagu Road in Awka, the state capital.

Tochukwu Ikenga, the police spokesperson, announced on Tuesday that one child is still missing.

Earlier on Tuesday, videos and photos of a minibus stranded in floodwaters were shared on Facebook. Many people urged the authorities to act quickly, especially since school children were among those trapped.

In his statement, Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said officers responded quickly after learning about the incident.

“Upon receiving information about the incident, the Safe School Operatives swiftly mobilised to the area and, working with members of the community, rescued seven school children and two adults and moved them to safety,” he said.

The spokesperson noted that police worked closely with local residents during the rescue. He also mentioned that one school child is still missing after the rescue of the nine people.

“The Command has consequently activated sustained search and rescue operations in the affected area.

The search operation is being conducted in collaboration with community members and relevant stakeholders and will continue until the remaining persons are located and accounted for,” he said.

Mr Ikenga added that the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnanna Ama, has ordered that the search and rescue effort be ongoing and expanded.

Mr Ama also called on residents in the area, especially those living or working around the affected route, to share any information that could help find the missing child.

The commissioner urged parents, guardians, school authorities, and drivers to be very careful around flooded roads, bridges, and waterways, especially during heavy rainfall.

“Parents and guardians are also advised to ensure that children do not attempt to cross flooded or otherwise dangerous routes,” he stated.

The police chief emphasized that the state command is dedicated to protecting the safety of school children in the state. He added that the command will keep working closely with communities and relevant agencies under the Safe School Initiative to prevent unnecessary loss of lives during emergencies.