DR Congo: At Least 72 Dead in Boat Capsizing on the Congo River (Updated Toll)
Authorities have announced that at least 72 bodies have been recovered from the Congo River in northwestern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following the capsizing of a commercial boat during the night from Monday to Tuesday. This updated toll was provided by local officials on Thursday.
“The incident occurred near Mayita, a locality situated approximately 30 kilometers from Mbandaka, the capital of Equateur province,” authorities reported, adding that the boat was operating on a commercial route between Mbandaka and the Mobenzeno market, which is located over 40 kilometers away.
Nelson Lokondo, president of the civil society organization in Equateur, cited by media outlets, explained that factors contributing to the accident included nighttime navigation, vessel overloading, and non-compliance with regulations set by the authorities.
Compétent Mboyo, the provincial river commissioner, confirmed these factors and highlighted the lack of equipment for patrol and navigation control services.
A previous report had indicated 22 fatalities.
