Video of boat accident that killed 78 is from Congo not Goa: Police

Democratic Republic of Congo has launched investigations into the capsizing of an overcrowded boat on Lake Kivu in Goma that killed at least 78 people.

The video of the multi-deck vessel capsizing was widely circulated on social media. In India, some posted on X (formerly Twitter) wrongly stating that the tragic incident happened in Goa.

Also read: 12 boat tragedies that have left Kerala mourning over the past century

However, Goa Police clarified that it was fake news, and the video was from Congo.

“A video circulating on social media claims a boat capsized near Goa’s shores. This is false. The incident occurred in Goma, Congo, Africa. Please refrain from sharing unverified news,” Goa Police said on their official X handle on Saturday (October 5).

Congolese authorities said they are also probing another boat capsizing last month on the river Kwango.

“These investigations will aim to clarify the circumstances of these unfortunate events and establish responsibilities so that the people who are at the root of these accidents are prosecuted before the competent courts,” the Ministry of Justice said in a statement.

According to the governor of South Kivu province, the death toll was 78 and that 278 had been on board. He said the toll could go up.

“It’ll take at least three days to get the exact numbers, because not all the bodies have been found yet,” Governor Jean Jacques Purisi told Reuters.