The 16-year-old, identified as Sylvester, reportedly drowned in a river in Owhelogbo community in Isoko North Local Government Area of the state on Wednesday.

The 12-year-old’s drowning incident occurred on Saturday, March 15, in Ugbolokposo community, Isoko South LGA though details remained sketchy at press time.

Eyewitnesses said Sylvester had gone swimming with friends when he was suddenly pulled under the water.

One of his friends, who raised the alarm, said efforts to save him proved abortive, prompting him to rush to the community for help.

Despite frantic rescue efforts, Sylvester’s lifeless body only resurfaced around 9 pm.

His friends, who insisted he was a good swimmer, expressed shock over the tragic incident, noting that they had  entered the river several times without issues.