World

Funeralgoers die as ferry sinks in CAR

April 20, 2024
A map of the Central African Republic. — courtesy BBC
A map of the Central African Republic. — courtesy BBC

BANGUI — At least 58 people have died in the Central African Republic after the overcrowded ferry carrying them capsized, say officials.

Most of the 300 people on board were on their way to a funeral on Friday when the vessel sank. It happened on the Mpoko river near the capital, Bangui.

Footage of the accident on social media shows people falling or jumping into the water trying to reach the banks of the river.

Boat disasters are not uncommon in the Central African Republic.

"What just happened was terrifying," a witness told French-language broadcaster RFI.

"I know a family who've lost seven relatives in this tragedy."

Speaking to local station Radio Guira on Saturday, civil protection head Thomas Djimasse said rescuers retrieved "58 lifeless bodies" from the water, but added "we don't know the total number of people who are underwater".

Dozens of survivors are reported to be receiving treatment in hospitals in Bangui. — BBC


April 20, 2024
105 views
HIGHLIGHTS
World
18 minutes ago

UK launches first air strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen in 18 months

World
26 minutes ago

Harvard head apologizes as scathing reports on campus prejudice released

World
51 minutes ago

Swedish police arrest teenager after fatal triple shooting