A private boat carrying over 40 passengers capsized at Kona Punda on Sunday April 28 while ferrying them to Mororo, Garrisa County, several feared to be dead.
The Kenya Red Cross confirmed the incident saying the boat was carrying a large number of people when it capsized and their rescue time in Garissa and Tana River are already responding to the incident.
"A boat carrying a large number of people has capsized at Kona Punda while heading to Mororo. Our teams from Garissa and Tana River County are currently responding to the situation," Kenya Red Cross said.
In a video shared online, the boat can be seen capsizing with helpless passengers screaming for help. Other residents by the shores awaiting their turn to be ferried across can also be seen watching in shock.
Two other boats can also be seen trying to cross through the raging water but only one manages to go through. so far 23 people re reported to be missing from the incident as rescue operations continue.
The boats are reportedly said to be charging ksh 1500 per individual to ferry them across the river.
Tragedy Strikes As Private Boat Capsizes Off Kona Punda, Rescue Team Dispatched For Search