Navy rescues 59 from drowning in turbulent waters, loses officer

The Nigerian Navy says it’s operatives rescued 59 persons from drowning after their vessel, MV AMBIKA 4, was at risk of sinking in turbulent waters near the Okpobo River entrance.

Navy spokesman, Commodore Augustine Adams-Aliu, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday said the leader of the rescue team, Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, however, lost his life during the operation.

He said the distress call was received on July 30, 2024, and a team of 10 personnel led by Lieutenant Commander Gwaza was deployed to rescue the crew of the dredging vessel contracted to Sterling Global Oil Limited.

“It was reported that the vessel was at the risk of sinking near Okpobo River entrance an area known to be turbulent at this time of the year.

“Accordingly, Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base BONNY deployed a Rescue Team comprising 10 armed personnel in 2 Interceptor Boats led by the Base Operations Officer Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, for the rescue operation.

“Attempts to approach the distressed vessel proved challenging due to the force of the waves and another squadron of 3 boats was dispatched to reinforce the rescue team.

“Additionally, another vessel, Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA, drones, Nigerian Navy Helicopters, and one Nigerian Airforce helicopter were deployed for the Search and Rescue mission.

“Eventually, all 59 crew were rescued successfully but the Base Operations Officer, Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza paid the supreme price.

“He fell overboard accidentally during the rescue operation which lasted for about 10hours from midnight of 29 July 2024 to 1000 hours on 30 July 2024.

“The Nigerian Navy deeply mourns the loss of Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, who bravely risked his life to save others.

“Lieutenant Commander Gwaza was a well-trained combat diver whose painful death reflects the risks and sacrifices of Nigerian Navy personnel towards the safety of Nigeria’s maritime domain. His dedication and sacrifice will forever be remembered,” he said.