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Tragic Congo Boat Fire Claims 148 Lives, Hundreds Missing

4/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A tragic boat fire and capsizing in the Democratic Republic of Congo has claimed at least 148 lives, with hundreds more unaccounted for. The disaster struck near Mbandaka on Tuesday, as the HB Kongolo, overloaded with around 500 passengers, caught fire. Many victims, unable to swim, perished in the Congo River. Rescue operations are ongoing.

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Story summary

A tragic boat fire and capsizing in the Democratic Republic of Congo has claimed at least 148 lives, with hundreds more unaccounted for. The disaster struck near Mbandaka on Tuesday, as the HB Kongolo, overloaded with around 500 passengers, caught fire. Many victims, unable to swim, perished in the Congo River. Rescue operations are ongoing.