“Sadly, all three were found dead” - Tragic Boxing Day picnic ends in drowning in Benue community

By James Ike

Three young men have reportedly drowned in River Buruku following a tragic incident during a Boxing Day picnic in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, throwing the community into mourning.

The incident occurred on Thursday when the victims, whose identities had yet to be officially confirmed as of press time, joined other fun seekers at the popular riverside to relax and celebrate the festive season.

An eyewitness said the young men were part of a large crowd that gathered at the riverbank for leisure before deciding to go swimming.

“Many people were at the riverside for a picnic and everyone was having a good time,” the source said.

He added that concern arose later in the evening when the three failed to return. “It was later in the evening that people started raising alarm that three young men who went swimming had drowned,” the eyewitness explained.

The development reportedly caused panic among those present, prompting calls for help from nearby residents and experienced local divers.

“The alarm attracted the attention of local divers and other individuals who immediately began searching the river,” he said.

Despite the immediate response, the search that night was unsuccessful. “Unfortunately, despite their efforts, they could not locate them that night,” the eyewitness added.

Search efforts resumed and continued into the early hours of Saturday, with community members combing the river and surrounding areas in hopes of finding the missing youths.

By Saturday morning, the bodies of the three young men were recovered from the river, confirming fears that they had drowned. “Sadly, all three were found dead,” the eyewitness said, describing the mood in Buruku as one of shock and deep sorrow.

The tragic incident has cast a shadow over festive celebrations in the area, as residents mourn the loss and call for greater caution around the river during social gatherings.

While  community leaders also urged youths to avoid risky activities during celebrations.

Efforts to get a response from the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful as calls and messages sent to her phone were not returned.