Three die while desilting well in Rivers, police launch investigation

2026-02-23 - 18:17

By Davies Iheamnachor Port Harcourt – Three people, including two brothers, have died while desilting an old water well in Aminigboko community, Abua/Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State. The incident occurred on Sunday. The community, an oil-producing area, is known for high concentrations of hazardous gases, which are suspected to have contributed to the deaths. The Rivers State Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident. According to reports, the confined space job required strict safety measures, including the use of oxygen masks, proper gas testing, and adequate ventilation — precautions that were not reportedly in place. Confirming the development, the Public Relations Officer of the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, a Chief Superintendent of Police, said the well’s owner intended to put the abandoned tank back into use and had contracted the two brothers for the job. She explained, “The son of the owner wanted to put the abandoned well into use and contacted the two brothers. One of the boys entered the well first and started screaming. His brother and a third person entered to find out what happened, but tragically, all three were trapped and died. Investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of their deaths.” The police urged residents to exercise caution when dealing with confined spaces, particularly in areas prone to hazardous gases, and called for strict adherence to safety protocols.