Tragedy in Congo: Over 86 People, Mostly Students, Die After Overloaded Boat Capsizes

International News:  A major boat accident occurred in the Equateur province of north-western Congo on Friday, in which at least 86 people died. This incident took place in the Basankusu area and a large number of the dead are said to be students.

According to the state news agency, the accident occurred when a motor boat capsized. The boat was carrying more passengers and luggage than required. Officials said the boat was traveling at night and lost its balance and capsized in the river.

Death toll and rescue operations

Officials said that 86 bodies have been recovered so far. Many people are still reported missing. The local administration and rescue teams are present on the spot and the search for the missing people is on. People from the villages situated on the river bank are also helping in this search operation.

Havoc broke out on students

The most painful aspect is that most of the dead are students. It is being told that the students were going from their homes to other towns for studies. There is mourning in the families and there is a wave of deep grief in the villages. State media has blamed improper loading of the boat and navigation at night for the accident. This is not the first time that a boat accident has happened in Congo. Such incidents often occur here due to overloading and ignorance of safety standards.