The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of seven people, including six actors and an actress, following a boat accident on the River Niger, which led to the death of Nollywood actor Junior Pope.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, with authorities still searching for three missing people.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, it was revealed that the boat, which was one of two conveying the film crew to a location in Anambra West LGA of the state, capsized while returning to Asaba, Delta State.
According to the statement, the Anambra Command Marine Police swiftly deployed for rescue operations, managing to retrieve six actors and one actress from the water.
Additionally, two victims who were unconscious were rescued with the help of local fishermen and taken to the Delta State Command Marine Police Jetty.
As efforts to locate the missing persons continue, the statement said that issues concerning the release of deceased victims for burial will be handled by the Delta State Police Command.
Meanwhile, a preliminary investigation has been initiated to ascertain the cause of the accident, with the Commissioner of Police, CP Aderemi Adeoye, ordering a comprehensive probe to determine any potential criminal liability.
Expressing condolences to the families, friends, and fans of the deceased actors, CP Adeoye prayed for the peaceful repose of their souls.
News About Nigeria previously reported that among those who perished in the tragic incident was Nollywood actor Pope Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope, along with three others.
The accident occurred when their boat capsized into the Anam River while en route to a filming location.
