Marines rescue 80 stranded on L. Victoria

Marines of the Uganda Police Force rescued 80 people stranded after their boat’s engine broke down on Lake Victoria.

The vessel carried both passengers and merchandise, according to the deputy Police Spokesperson, Patrick Onyango.

The boat, which plies from Nakiwogo landing site in Entebbe Municipality to Kalangala district island on Lake Victoria, broke down in the middle of the Lake in the vicinity of Kakyanga, Onyango saidin a press statement.

All the 80 passengers who were on board rescued.

With no injuries, they were taken to Lutoboka landing site in Kalangala.

This particular water vessel started operations to and from the Kalangala islands following the suspension of the MV Kalangala Ferry on the lake to allow for its routine maintenance and servicing, something that is done annually.

true
All the standed passengers were transferred to Lutoboka landing site. PHOTO/Uganda Police Force

true
The Uganda marines have previously gone through intensive training. PHOTO/Uganda Police Force

This rescue operation was a clear demonstration of an improved marine force, which has seen efforts to introduce the marine officers to modern maritime policing in the country.

In that effect, 65 marine officers underwent six months of rigorous training and were passed out mid-June last year after completing a comprehensive maritime operations course at the Police Marine headquarters in Kigo.