Nampula is the most affected region, accounting for one-third of all cases. (representative)
Maputo:
An overcrowded makeshift ferry sank off Mozambique’s north coast, killing more than 90 people, local authorities said on Sunday.
The converted fishing boat, carrying about 130 people, ran into trouble while trying to reach an island near Nampula province, officials said.
“The ship sank because it was overcrowded and unfit to carry passengers… A total of 91 people lost their lives,” Nampula Secretary of State Jaime Neto said.
He added that among the victims were many children
Rescuers have found five survivors and are searching for more, but sea conditions are making operations difficult.
Neto said most passengers tried to flee the mainland because of panic caused by false information about cholera.
The southern African country, one of the world’s poorest, has recorded nearly 15,000 cases of the water-borne disease since October and 32 deaths, according to government data.
Nampula is the most affected region, accounting for one-third of all cases.
The official said an investigation team was working to find out the cause of the sinking.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
