A distressing incident occurred in Apac District, where nine individuals are now feared dead after a canoe they were sailing in capsized in the River Nile. The unfortunate event took place as thirteen people attempted to cross from Apac to Kiryandongo District at approximately 5 am on Monday.
Presently, nine individuals remain missing, while the four survivors are currently undergoing medical treatment at a facility located in Masindi Port. According to Mr. Moses Ssejussi, the LC1 chairman of Waitumba Village, the operators of the ill-fated canoe were intoxicated. He explained that upon arriving at the landing site, they discovered that the authorized boat operators were not yet available. Consequently, they approached individuals who were inebriated at a nearby bar and secured their assistance. Regrettably, the group opted for a very small canoe, which ultimately capsized as they approached the opposite shore.
Eyewitness Mr. Francis Gaci recounted that the party consisted of eleven individuals intending to cross to Kiryandongo. Two individuals, including Olega, agreed to transport them. Tragically, the canoe capsized, resulting in the drowning of nine people, while Olega and another individual, along with the canoe operators, managed to survive.
Confirming the incident, Mr. Christopher Beingana, the officer in charge of Apac Central Police Station, stated that they had yet to receive comprehensive details. “I have been informed about it, but I am still awaiting more precise information. They contacted me, but the specifics were not provided. I need to verify the details,” he expressed.
The occurrence coincided with the routine maintenance period of the Masindi Port Ferry, which has temporarily halted its operations. The ferry suspended its services on Saturday, July 8, and is scheduled to resume on July 14, 2023.
