This archive report was first published on 5 January 2022.
On January 4, 2022, a devastating boat accident occurred in Pemba, Tanzania, claiming the lives of nine people and leaving 10 others missing.
The tragedy unfolded when the boat, carrying approximately 30 to 40 people, capsized mid-voyage while en route to a funeral on Panza Island from Chekacheka.
Pemba South Police Commander Richard Thadei confirmed the incident, stating that the boat did not reach its destination.
Although the cause of the accident remains unclear, Commander Thadei ruled out bad weather as a contributing factor, and the boat's captain remains unaccounted for.
"So far nine bodies have been recovered and taken to the Regional Hospital for medical examination so that the process of handing them over to their families can go ahead," Commander Thadei said.
