Tragic Loss: Naval Officer Dies During Rescue Mission For 59 People In River

Tragic Loss: Naval Officer Dies During Rescue Mission For 59 People In River

A Nigerian naval officer has died while leading a rescue operation for 59 individuals stranded on the dredging vessel MV AMBIKA 4 near Okpobo River. Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, who spearheaded the mission, lost his life during the effort to save those on board………. CONTINUE READING

On July 30, 2024, the Nigerian Navy received an urgent distress call from MV AMBIKA 4, which was at risk of sinking in the turbulent waters near the Okpobo River entrance. The vessel was contracted to Sterling Global Oil Limited.

The Navy’s Forward Operating Base Bonny dispatched a rescue team, including 10 armed personnel in two interceptor boats, under the leadership of Lt. Cdr Gwaza. Due to the severe wave conditions, a second squadron of three boats was sent to assist. Additional resources, including Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA, drones, helicopters from the Nigerian Navy, and one from the Nigerian Air Force, were also deployed to aid the rescue mission.

Despite the challenging conditions, all 59 crew members were successfully rescued. However, Lt. Cdr Gwaza fell overboard accidentally during the operation, which lasted approximately 10 hours from midnight on July 29 to 10 a.m. on July 30.

Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, the Naval spokesman, expressed deep sorrow over Gwaza’s death, highlighting his bravery and dedication. “Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza’s sacrifice will always be remembered,” Adams-Aliu stated.

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