The Nigerian Navy successfully said they had rescued 59 crew members from MV AMBIKA 4, a dredging vessel contracted by Sterling Global Oil Limited, after it encountered perilous conditions near the Okpobo River entrance on July 30, 2024.
According to the Director of Information Nigerian Navy Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, the vessel was at risk of sinking in the turbulent waters, prompting a swift response from the Nigerian Navy.
He said the distress call triggered an immediate deployment from the Navy’s Forward Operating Base BONNY.
Led by Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, the rescue team comprised 10 armed personnel in two Interceptor Boats.
Despite the dangerous conditions, the team pressed forward, but the force of the waves necessitated reinforcement.
A squadron of three additional boats, Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA, drones, and helicopters from both the Navy and Nigerian Air Force were dispatched to assist in the search and rescue operation.
Commodore A. Adams-Aliu said after nearly 10 hours of coordinated efforts, all 59 crew members were safely rescued.
However, the Navy suffered a tragic loss when Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, the Base Operations Officer and a well-trained combat diver, fell overboard and lost his life during the mission.
“The Nigerian Navy mourns the passing of Lieutenant Commander Gwaza, whose bravery and sacrifice underscore the profound risks faced by its personnel in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain.
“His dedication and service will be forever honoured.”
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