The Bauchi State Police Command has confirmed three teenagers dead, after they reportedly drowned in a river at Jinkiri village, Bauchi Local Government Area.

The command’s spokesman, CSP Ahmed Wakil, confirmed the incident to journalists in Bauchi on Wednesday.

Mr Wakil said the victims, identified as Habibu Mohammed, 16, Abubakar Mohammed, 16, and Zailani Sule, 14, all residents of Durum village, reportedly lost their lives following an unfortunate incident that occurred around 1:00 p.m. on Sunday.

He said preliminary investigation revealed the teenagers were carrying out mining activities in the area before they decided to go swimming in the river.

“Despite prompt efforts to get medical help, they sadly died before reaching the hospital,” Mr Wakil said.

He further said they were examined and confirmed dead at the Specialist Hospital, Bauchi, before being released to their families for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

According to him, the commissioner of police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, expressed condolences to the bereaved families and emphasised the importance of community awareness on water safety, particularly during periods of bad weather.

He said the command had launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Mr Wakil reiterated the command’s commitment to improving safety education to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

(NAN)