By ALICE NACHILEMBE
A devastating incident occurred on Lake Bangweulu today, June 8, 2024, when a boat carrying 16 passengers capsized due to strong winds and waves, resulting in the deaths of five people. Eleven others survived the ordeal.
According to Police Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, Samfya Police received reports of the tragic incident at approximately 14:30 hours. Upon investigation, it was revealed that two boats traveling to Chilubi District encountered a severe storm, causing them to capsize.
The first boat, operated by Stephen Sepe, 27, was carrying 15 passengers who were all rescued by a passing boat from Chilubi District. Fortunately, no casualties were reported from this boat.
The second boat, operated by John Musongo, 41, was carrying 16 passengers, including three children and two adults who tragically drowned. The victims have been identified as Salome Kasabwe, 17 months, Mathews Malama, 19 months, Ronald Mulumbe, 18 months, Nga’ndwe Webby, 45 years, and Mulenga Chola, 38 years.
Eleven passengers from the second boat survived after being rescued by another boat from the opposite direction. The survivors are currently receiving treatment at Samfya District Hospital.
The bodies of the deceased have been transported to Samfya District Hospital mortuary, where they await postmortem examination and burial arrangements. The two boats and their marine engines have not yet been retrieved.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the boats capsized due to strong winds and waves. The police are continuing their investigation into the incident.
