Police warn residents as seven drown in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Police Command has raised the alarm over increasing cases of drowning in the state.

It said seven persons had so far drowned within two months.

Police Public Relations Officer, Haruna Mohammed, who stated this in a statement on Thursday, in Bauchi, said the seven deaths occurred in five cases within the past 52 days.

Mohammed added, “It has come to the knowledge of Bauchi State Police Command that of recent, cases of drowning are on the increase in the state and is causing concern to the command.

“Available statistics so far revealed that between June 21 and August 12, 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 River Kirfi, Alkaleri, Zara in Ganjuwa and Yelwa respectively.”

The PPRO warned the general public to stay away from river banks and urged parents to monitor their children and wards to desist from swimming in rivers and streams so as to save their lives.

He assured the public of the command’s commitment to providing safe and secured environment in the state.

“In view of the above, members of the public, especially those unable to swim, are advised to stay away from river bank/streams or open drainage usually flooded with water during this period of rainy season.

“Parents are equally urged to monitor and warn their children as well from going to the river/streams to swim because, apart from risking their lives, they will also be exposed to water borne diseases,” he warned.