In a devastating incident in the Central African Republic, a ferry carrying passengers en route to a funeral has capsized on the Mpoko River near the capital city of Bangui. The tragic event has resulted in the loss of at least 58 lives, with fears that the toll may rise as rescuers continue their efforts.

Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of horror as the ferry overturned, prompting passengers to scramble for safety by attempting to reach the river bank or jumping into the water. Footage circulating on social media captured the chaotic aftermath of the capsizing, highlighting the desperate attempts of individuals to escape the sinking vessel.

Thomas Dezimas, the civil protection chief, provided grim updates on the rescue operation, confirming the recovery of 58 bodies from the water. However, the total number of individuals submerged remains unknown, leaving authorities grappling with the scale of the tragedy.

Initial investigations suggest that the ferry may have been overloaded beyond its capacity, contributing to its capsizing. Reports indicate that all passengers aboard the vessel were headed to a funeral, adding to the poignancy of the incident.

Expressing shock and grief, eyewitnesses lamented the harrowing ordeal, with one individual revealing the loss of seven relatives in the tragedy. The community mourns the lives lost in this heartbreaking event, underscoring the need for improved safety measures and vigilance in maritime transportation to prevent such catastrophes in the future.