Terror at Sea: 18 Rescued, Unknown Number Missing After Boat Capsizes in Lamu

Terror at Sea: 18 Rescued, Unknown Number Missing After Boat Capsizes in Lamu

Panic and heartbreak gripped Lamu County on Friday morning, September 19, after a boat carrying an unknown number of passengers capsized off the coast of Manda Island. The vessel was part of a fleet of nine boats participating in a local race when tragedy struck.

Strong Winds Flip Boat Mid-Race

Eyewitnesses say the boat overturned suddenly due to strong winds. The race, meant to celebrate local maritime culture, quickly turned into a nightmare.

“The boat flipped without warning. People screamed and jumped into the water,” said one witness.

Although 18 people were rescued, the exact number of those still missing remains unclear. Rescue teams are racing against time to locate survivors.

Small Boats, Big Challenges

Local community leader Faiz Amana described the rescue operation as extremely difficult. He said the boats used for the rescue were too small and lacked proper equipment.

“We did not have any other help. Our boat is small and has no capacity, but we still managed to rescue people,” Amana said.

He added that some victims struggled to breathe, while others were too weak to swim.

“Some had difficulties in breathing, others could not swim, but through cooperation, we were able to save them,” he explained.

Despite the odds, the team also managed to recover several of the expensive boats involved in the race.

“We rescued them together with their boats and brought them back to shore,” Amana added.

Search Continues as Families Wait

Emergency teams and locals are still combing the waters, hoping to find those missing. The mood in Lamu remains tense, with families anxiously awaiting news.

“We are praying for a miracle. Our brother is still missing,” said a relative of one of the victims.

A Pattern of Tragedy

This incident follows a string of similar disasters. On May 24, three boats capsized in Kilifi and Lamu, prompting a massive rescue effort by the Kenya Red Cross.

“Three boat capsize incidents were reported… Several people have been rescued, with search efforts ongoing despite rough sea conditions,” Red Cross Kenya stated.

As the search continues, calls for better safety measures and emergency preparedness grow louder.

“We need stronger boats and trained rescue teams. These tragedies must stop,” urged a local elder.

ALSO READ: Court Grants Matiang’i  Win in Niguna Miguna Deportation Case

Terror at Sea: 18 Rescued, Unknown Number Missing After Boat Capsizes in Lamu