The Anambra State police command has confirmed the disappearance of a pupil, who reportedly went missing after a downpour and heavy flooding that submerged Nibo-Isiagu Road, Awka, on Tuesday.

The ‌⁠‍‍⁠⁠‌⁠‌‌⁠‌‌‌‌police public relations officer (PPRO) in the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists in Awka.

Mr Ikenga stated that the command had intensified its search for the child, whose identity had yet to be ascertained.

He said the command rescued nine people, including seven schoolchildren and two adults, in the same area, with support from its Safe School Operatives and good-spirited Nigerians.

“The incident occurred in the early hours of today, when some schoolchildren and adults were caught up in the flood while travelling along the affected area.

“Upon receiving information about the incident, the Safe School Operatives swiftly mobilised to the area and, working with members of the community, rescued seven schoolchildren and two adults and moved them to safety, ” the PPRO added.

According to him, the command is continuing its search and rescue operations in the affected area.

He explained that the search operation was being conducted in collaboration with community members and relevant stakeholders, and would continue until the remaining persons were located and accounted for.

Mr Ikenga said the Commissioner of Police, Nnanna Ama, directed that the search and rescue operation be sustained and expanded.

He added that Mr Ama also urged residents of the area, particularly those living or operating around the affected route, to provide useful information that may help locate the missing pupil.

He further urged parents, guardians, school authorities and motorists to exercise extreme caution around flooded roads, bridges and waterways, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.

He advised parents and guardians to ensure that children did not attempt to cross flooded or dangerous routes.

Mr Ikenga said the command remained committed to protecting the safety of schoolchildren and other residents of the state.

“The police will continue to strengthen collaboration with communities and relevant agencies under the Safe School Initiative to prevent avoidable loss of lives during emergencies,” he added. 

(NAN)