At least 20 people have lost their lives after a passenger boat capsized in the Republic of Cameroon, with 18 of the victims confirmed to be Nigerians travelling to Adamawa State.
The tragic incident occurred late Monday night when the boat, which was travelling from Garoua in Cameroon to Yola in northeastern Nigeria, encountered a violent storm while crossing the waterway.
According to eyewitnesses, the vessel was carrying more than 50 passengers and was heavily loaded with iron rods and other building materials destined for Dasin community in Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
The storm reportedly struck around midnight, causing the overloaded boat to overturn. While early reports suggested the death toll could be as high as 30, authorities have so far confirmed that 20 people died in the accident.
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Sources said the 18 Nigerian victims have been identified and buried in Wuro Bokki community in Fufore Local Government Area, while search efforts continue for passengers who are still missing.
Rescue operations involving divers and emergency responders from both Cameroon and Nigeria remain ongoing as officials work to locate those yet to be accounted for.
Several survivors were rescued from the wreckage and are receiving medical treatment at hospitals in border communities. Authorities are expected to continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding the disaster.
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