DRC: Boat capsizes on Lulonga River near Basankusu leaving at least 22 persons dead late Jan. 18

Event

A boat capsized on the Lulonga River near the town of Basankusu late Jan. 18, leaving at least 22 people dead; at least 100 others are missing and feared to be dead. The vessel was reportedly heading to Lilanga, a border town near the Republic of Congo, at the time of the accident. Preliminary reports suggest that overloading was a primary contributing factor in the incident. River transport disruptions are possible on the affected section of waterway until authorities complete their search and recovery efforts.

Advice

Consult with trusted local sources on the status of riverine travel on the Lulonga River near the confluence with the Lopori River through at least Jan. 20. Confirm shipping and transport arrangements.