Nigerian tugboat sinks off South Africa, 12 rescued
South African authorities have rescued 12 crew members from a Nigerian tugboat that sank off the country’s coast. The tugboat, named LEO, was returning to Lagos after repairs in South Africa when it ran aground in stormy waters. Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed that one person has died and five remain missing. The rescued crew members are being taken to Port Elizabeth, where Nigerian officials will receive them.
What happened
- The Nigerian tugboat LEO had 18 people on board and sank off the South African coast during its return voyage to Lagos.
- 12 crew members were rescued, one person was confirmed dead, and five are still missing.
- Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated that the South African Ministry of Transportation informed Nigerian authorities about the incident.
- Dr. Magnus Eze, Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, said the rescued crew are being taken to Port Elizabeth.
- Nigerian High Commission officials are on their way to receive the rescued crew members as search and recovery efforts continue.
