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Tragic Boat Accidents in DRC: 193 Confirmed Dead, Many Missing

9/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Rescue teams are searching for missing individuals after two boat accidents in northwestern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) this week, resulting in at least 193 deaths.
A whaleboat caught fire and capsized on Thursday, killing 107 and leaving 146 missing.
A separate accident on Wednesday claimed at least 86 lives, primarily students, with more missing.
Local groups allege the actual death toll is higher than reported.
Overloaded and poorly maintained vessels contribute to frequent accidents in DRC's vital river transport.

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Story summary

Rescue teams are searching for missing individuals after two boat accidents in northwestern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) this week, resulting in at least 193 deaths.
A whaleboat caught fire and capsized on Thursday, killing 107 and leaving 146 missing.
A separate accident on Wednesday claimed at least 86 lives, primarily students, with more missing.
Local groups allege the actual death toll is higher than reported.
Overloaded and poorly maintained vessels contribute to frequent accidents in DRC's vital river transport.