A cargo vessel transporting essential relief supplies from Juba met with an unfortunate incident as it sank in the River Nile, just north of Malakal town.
The incident occurred shortly after the boat had docked, according to statements from local law enforcement officials.
Maj. Gen. Chol Dak, the Acting Police Commissioner in Upper Nile State, reported to Radio Tamazuj on Friday that the vessel had been laden with relief items designated for the World Food Programme. Tragically, during the attempt to salvage the sinking boat, an individual identified as John Simon went missing. A search and rescue operation is presently in progress to locate him. Gen. Dak confirmed the initiation of an investigation to ascertain the cause of the incident.
Gen. Dak also took the opportunity to remind boat operators and owners about the importance of adhering to established capacity limits, emphasizing the prevention of overloading.
Chuk Thon, Head of the Upper Nile Boats Trade Union, attributed the boat’s sinking to an excessive load that disregarded safety regulations. Thon urged his counterparts in Juba and Bor to implement stricter oversight over boat operations and enforce rigorous inspections, aiming to avert similar incidents in the future.
Meanwhile, Koang Tut, the boat’s pilot, recounted the accident: “Our voyage from Juba to Malakal was safe. Upon reaching the port, I powered down the engine and stepped away for a meal. Unexpectedly, I sensed movement, and the boat began to take on water, despite the absence of rough waters or any nearby obstructions. This is what happened, and I’m relieved to report that everyone aboard is safe.”