Tragedy struck Congo’s Equateur Province as two separate boat accidents claimed nearly 193 lives within just two days. The incidents left local communities devastated and mourning the loss of so many lives.
On Thursday evening, a boat carrying around 500 passengers caught fire while sailing through the Lukolela Territory. Flames spread quickly, forcing water into the vessel, which then sank in the river. Authorities confirmed that 107 people died in this accident, while 146 passengers managed to survive. Rescue teams rushed to the site to assist survivors and recover bodies.
Just a day earlier, another motorized boat capsized in Basankusu Territory. This disaster killed 86 passengers. The cause of the sinking remains unclear, and local officials are still investigating what triggered the tragedy. Survivors described the sudden chaos as the vessel went under.
With two deadly accidents occurring back-to-back, fear and grief have engulfed residents of Equateur Province. Many are now demanding stronger safety measures and stricter checks on passenger vessels to prevent such disasters in the future.
