No fewer than three persons are feared dead after a leisure outing at River Buruku in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State ended in tragedy.
The incident, which occurred on December 26, involved a group of revellers who reportedly visited the river for a picnic during the yuletide celebration.
The excursion, however, took a fatal turn when some of the visitors were suspected to have been swept away by the fast-moving current.
Rescue and recovery operations commenced shortly after the incident, with efforts extending into the following day.
Three bodies were eventually recovered from the river, according to information circulating within the community.
Images shared on social media showed the presence of an ambulance, security operatives and a large crowd at the riverbank, suggesting the mobilisation of emergency responders to manage the situation.
River Buruku is notorious for its strong currents and has recorded several drowning incidents in the past, particularly during festive seasons when residents and visitors troop to the area for recreation.
Despite repeated cautions by community leaders and safety officials, the river remains a popular relaxation spot.
Meanwhile, relatives of the victims are said to be awaiting official confirmation and clearer details on the circumstances that led to the fatal incident, as the community mourns yet another avoidable loss.