At least 50 people lost their lives and hundreds are missing as a tragic incident unfolded when a boat caught fire and capsized during a late-night river voyage in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The devastating event occurred on the Congo River, with reports suggesting that a motorized wooden boat named the HB Kongolo, carrying approximately 400 passengers, was engulfed in flames near the town of Mbandaka. The vessel was en route from the port of Matankumu to the Bolomba territory when the tragedy struck.
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According to officials, the fire on board is said to have started when someone was cooking, leading to a rapid and catastrophic chain of events. Eyewitnesses captured footage showing the horrifying moment as the boat became ablaze. As the flames spread, passengers, including women and children, leaped into the water in a desperate attempt to escape, with some tragically perishing due to their inability to swim. Despite the harrowing circumstances, dozens were successfully rescued, albeit with severe burns, following the distressing accident.
In the aftermath of the disaster, approximately 100 survivors were taken to the Mbandaka town hall, where they received temporary shelter and support. Authorities wasted no time as a search operation was launched the following day to locate and assist those who remained unaccounted for. This heartbreaking incident highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures and emergency preparedness in the region, as repeated deadly boating accidents have occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo, underscoring the pressing need for better training and resources for rescue teams.
This recent tragedy is unfortunately not an isolated one in the region, with a history of fatal incidents involving boats in the DR Congo. Reports indicate that in December 2024, a ferry capsized in the Busira River, resulting in the loss of 38 lives and more than 100 individuals reported missing. Similarly, in October of the same year, a boat carrying 278 passengers capsized, claiming the lives of at least 78 people. These incidents serve as sobering reminders of the risks faced by those navigating the waterways of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
As the search and rescue efforts continue amidst the devastation, it is crucial to reflect on the lives lost and the families affected by this tragedy. The local community, as well as authorities, are rallying together to provide aid and support to those impacted by this horrific event. The Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Congo has been contacted for further information as the details of this tragic incident continue to unfold. Our thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and all those involved in the ongoing response and recovery efforts.