WEB DESK: In the African country of Congo, the death toll from a boat fire incident has risen to 148.
The death toll from a catastrophic boat accident on the Congo River has risen to 148, with more than 100 individuals still missing, as reported by officials on Friday. The ill-fated vessel, known as the HB Kongolo, was carrying approximately 500 passengers when it met its tragic fate earlier this week.
The wooden motorboat caught fire and capsized Tuesday near Mbandaka in northwestern Congo. River commissioner Compétent Loyoko indicated that the blaze ignited due to a woman cooking on board. The ensuing chaos prompted many passengers, including women and children, to leap into the river, where numerous individuals struggled to stay afloat.
Although dozens were rescued, many survivors suffered serious burns. Rescue operations, supported by the Red Cross and local authorities, are still underway in hopes of locating those who are unaccounted for.
Senator Jean-Paul Boketsu Bofili from Equateur province remarked on the tragedy’s magnitude, stating, “The loss of life is staggering among the 500 passengers.” He underscored the urgent need for humanitarian assistance for over 150 burn victims.
