The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) says seven bodies have so far been recovered following a tragic boat accident on the Volta Lake, with two other passengers still missing as search and rescue efforts continue.
The boat, which was reportedly travelling from Yeji to Congo, capsized on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, between Sikakope and Mataiko villages in the Gonja East District of the Savannah Region.
According to the Authority, the vessel was carrying 14 passengers when it encountered severe weather conditions at about 5:30pm, leading to the disaster.
In a statement dated Thursday April 9, 2026, the GMA said initial rescue efforts helped save five male passengers, while nine people were initially feared drowned.
“As of Thursday, April 9, 2026, seven (7) bodies comprising two females and five children have been recovered,” the Authority confirmed.
Search operations are ongoing for the remaining two missing persons, identified as a woman and a child, with divers from the Ghana Navy and emergency responders assisting in the recovery efforts.
The Authority also raised concerns over safety compliance, noting that none of the 14 passengers were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident.
“The Authority is gravely concerned by findings that none of the passengers were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident,” the statement said, adding that “this blatant disregard for fundamental maritime safety regulations was a significant factor in the loss of life.”
The GMA further reminded boat operators and the public that life jacket use remains a mandatory requirement for all water transport, stressing that it will intensify enforcement and inspections to prevent future tragedies.
The Authority extended condolences to affected families and said it is working with local authorities to conclude search operations and investigate the cause of the accident.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
