Three teenagers drowned while swimming in a river at Jinkiri Village, Tirwun Ward, Bauchi Local Government Area, on Wednesday afternoon.
Police confirmed the tragic incident in a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Bauchi State Police Command, CSP Ahmad Wakil.
The victims, all from Durum Village, were identified as Habibu Mohammed, aged 16; Abubakar Mohammed, aged 16; and Zailani Sule, aged 14.
According to preliminary findings, the teenagers had been carrying out mining activities before deciding to swim in the nearby river. The accident occurred around 1:00 p.m., and despite swift attempts to seek medical help, all three were declared dead before they reached the hospital.
Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, extended his condolences to the grieving families and emphasised the importance of water safety, particularly during the rainy season.
The police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Authorities have since released the bodies to the families for burial after conducting examinations at the Bauchi State Specialist Hospital.
The Command reiterated its commitment to raising community awareness on water safety to prevent future tragedies.