Emergency responders led by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) are tirelessly working to rescue a man trapped deep within an underground drainage system in the Onipanu area of Lagos State.
The urgent response was triggered following reports of a distressing situation involving a drainage worker, prompting LASEMA to activate its comprehensive Emergency Response Plans from its Onipanu Base.
According to a statement issued by the Agency’s Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, the rescue operation was swiftly initiated at 4:25 PM local time.
Upon arrival at the scene, emergency teams uncovered that an adult male, engaged in de-silting drainage systems along the area, ventured into an underground tunnel to clear a blocked section but became trapped within the confines of the tunnel.
Further investigation revealed that the individual, identified as a Drain Ducks worker employed by LAMATA, was attempting to dislodge debris from the drainage system when the unfortunate incident occurred.
To expedite the rescue mission and ensure the safety of the trapped worker, advanced equipment has been deployed to penetrate the manhole and facilitate access to the affected individual. Additionally, strategic measures have been implemented to control and divert the inflow of water from the Ilupeju axis, mitigating risks associated with underground fluids.
The ongoing search and rescue operation underscores the collaborative efforts of emergency responders, who remain committed to extracting the worker from the hazardous situation.
As the operation unfolds, the city holds its breath, hoping for a successful outcome to the intricate and challenging rescue mission in the heart of Lagos.