- Local sources revealed that kidnappers frequently operate in the area
A foreign national and others are feared dead after a white Toyota Hilux, reportedly part of a company convoy, plunged into the Okulu Aleto River in Eleme Local Government Area, Rivers State.
The incident occurred when the driver, attempting to escape suspected kidnappers, lost control near the dilapidated Aleto Bridge.
Eyewitnesses reported that the convoy was attacked by armed gunmen near the bridge.
In an effort to flee, the driver of the Hilux veered off the bridge, which has been in a state of disrepair due to vandalism and ongoing reconstruction, allowing the vehicle to fall into the river.
The Aleto Bridge, part of the East-West Road connecting Port Harcourt to Ogoni communities and Akwa Ibom State, has long been described as a “death trap.” Vandals had previously removed its protective railings, worsening its hazardous condition.
Local sources revealed that kidnappers frequently operate in the area, using the river to ferry victims to unknown locations.
Joseph Obele, Chairman of the Property Owners on Eleme East-West Road, decried the negligence surrounding the bridge:
“The accident highlights our call for the revocation of RCC’s contract. Road users have repeatedly warned about the risks posed by the bridge, but no action was taken. This tragedy could have been avoided.”
Rescue operations, led by the Rivers State Emergency Management Agency (RSEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and local police, are ongoing. Eleme Local Government Chairman, Chief Brian Gokpa, mobilized additional teams to aid the search efforts.
As of press time, the search operation continues, with authorities working to recover other occupants of the ill-fated vehicle.
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