KARIBA BOAT DEATH TOLL RISES TO 92 AS PASSENGER FIGURES RAISE FRESH QUESTIONS
KARIBA — The death toll from the Lake Kariba RIDA boat disaster has risen to 92, with police confirming that eight more bodies were recovered from the lake on Monday.
The latest figures also raise fresh questions about how many people were aboard the ill-fated vessel.
With 77 people rescued, the known figures now account for at least 169 people — 92 dead and 77 survivors.
That is significantly above the vessel’s stated 90-passenger carrying capacity, raising questions about possible overcrowding and how the passenger numbers were recorded before the boat set sail.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police said the latest eight bodies were recovered as search and recovery operations continued.
Police said they have deployed two large boats, two small boats and more than 40 Sub-Aqua police officers, together with other resources, to assist with the operation.
The force is also coordinating with Government agencies and other stakeholders to ensure the identification of recovered bodies is handled swiftly.
Relatives seeking information have been urged to approach the Kariba Command Centre or the local police station.
The search for more victims continues on Lake Kariba.
That boat looks like one which was abandoned 70 years ago. Such should never be near a lake or river for any purpose. Condolences to the families affected.