Tragic Ferry Capsize Claims 38 Lives in DRC as Christmas Travelers Go Missing
At least 38 individuals have lost their lives, with over 100 still unaccounted for after a ferry capsized in the Busira River, northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, while carrying passengers traveling for Christmas. The incident occurred late Friday when the ferry, part of a convoy, began its journey from the towns of Ingende and Loolo towards Boende, primarily transporting merchants returning home for the holidays.
According to local officials and eyewitnesses, only 20 people have been rescued so far, with fears that the official death toll may rise significantly due to reports suggesting the vessel was overloaded with more than 400 passengers. Joseph Joseph Kangolingoli, the mayor of Ingende, confirmed this situation, highlighting the struggle for safe transport options in the region.
The Central government has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident or details on the ongoing rescue operations. Reports from Al Jazeera remain unverified regarding casualties. Congolese authorities have consistently cautioned against overcrowding on boats and promised to enforce safety regulations, although many in remote areas rely on such transportation due to inadequate road access.
This tragedy follows a spate of recent maritime disasters in the DRC, including an earlier capsizing in the same week that resulted in 25 fatalities, and another incident in October that claimed 78 lives on Lake Kivu. Additionally, in June, a similar accident on the Kwa River led to the loss of 80 lives. The repeated nature of these accidents underscores a pressing need for improved waterway safety measures in the region.
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Photo credit www.aljazeera.com
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