River Cess County – The serene waters of River Cess have become a source of tragedy as the region grapples with two harrowing cases of drowning and disappearance within days.
In the Fen River Administrative District, the community is in turmoil over the disappearance of 42-year-old Abraham Gboe, who has been missing for four days. Gboe left his home in Gbalah Town on Tuesday, December 24, intending to fish in a nearby river. He was last seen at around 4:00 PM, but he never returned.
Search teams comprising local residents and authorities have recovered his canoe, a bag, a cutlass, and slippers along the riverbank, but there has been no trace of Gboe himself. The local government has mobilized efforts to intensify the search, with hopes that he may still be found alive.
Joe Ziahkpah, Gboe’s father, and a group of community elders have been detained for questioning in connection with the case. While authorities have not disclosed the reasons for their detention, sources speculate it could be part of a broader investigation into Gboe’s disappearance.
Meanwhile, the residents of Gbalah Town remain anxious, clinging to the hope that Gboe will eventually be found. “We are praying for his safe return. The entire community is in suspense, and we hope the search efforts yield positive results,” said a local elder.
The incident has drawn attention across River Cess County, with both local and county officials working tirelessly to resolve the mystery.
In another development, on December 28, tragedy struck again when Steven, a man believed to be in his early 20s, drowned in the Doe River near Neezuin after leaving Opa Village. Witnesses say Steven had been visiting a local house in Opa Village before heading to the river for a swim.
According to reports, he was last seen enjoying the waters when he suddenly disappeared beneath the surface. The incident sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an immediate search and rescue operation.
Efforts to recover Steven’s body have been relentless, with rescue teams diving into the river throughout the day. However, as of this report, his body has not been found.
The tragedy has left the residents of Neezuin and Opa Village in mourning. “Steven was a kind and respectful young man. This loss is a heavy blow to our community,” a neighbor remarked.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid the river as investigations continue to determine the cause of the drowning.
These incidents have plunged River Cess into grief and concern, raising questions about safety measures around the county’s rivers. Local officials are appealing to residents to exercise caution near water bodies, especially during the festive season when many engage in recreational activities.
“This is a tragic reminder of how dangerous these waters can be,” said a local authority. “We encourage everyone to prioritize safety and avoid fishing or swimming alone.”
The back-to-back incidents have sparked discussions on the need for better community education and safety infrastructure to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the search for Abraham Gboe continues and efforts to recover Steven’s body persist, the people of River Cess are united in hope and mourning. These tragedies highlight the fragility of life and the pressing need for vigilance and collective action to safeguard communities.
By Methuselah Gaye, Correspondent