Emmanuel Thomas, Lagos
August 14, 2015 – At least seven people have been confirmed dead as drowning fever grips Bauchi State.
According to a press statement, Police Public Relations Officer, Bauchi, DSP Haruna Mohammed said that between June 21 and August 12, 2015, at least five cases of drowning were recorded adding that seven people died in the five incidents.
“Available statistics so far reveals that between 21/06/2015 and 12/08/2015, over Five cases of drowning have been reported from various locations across the State. As a result, seven victims were confirmed dead as follows, Three from River Yuguda, one each from Rivers Kirfi, Alkaleri, Zara in Ganjuwa and Yelwa”, Mohammed said.
He said that increase in cases of drowning in the state is a source of great concern to the command.
“In view of the above, members of the public, especially those unable to swim are advised to stay away from river banks/streams or open drainages usually flooded with water during this period of rainy season.
“Meanwhile, parents are equally urged to monitor and warn their children as well from going to the rivers/streams to swim because apart from risking their lives, they will also be exposed to water borne diseases”, he said.
