By Tichaona Katsvamutima
The death toll from the Kariba ferry disaster has risen to 72 following the recovery of three more bodies late on Saturday, with search and recovery operations continuing on Lake Kariba.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), in an update issued at 8pm on Saturday, August 15, confirmed that three additional bodies had been recovered, bringing the total number of confirmed fatalities to 72.
Police said the identification of the bodies recovered during Saturday’s operation was still in progress as authorities continued efforts to account for those who remain missing.
The disaster has triggered an extensive multi-agency search and recovery operation involving the army, police, emergency responders and other teams working on and around the lake.
The ferry disaster has also renewed scrutiny of passenger safety on Lake Kariba, including questions surrounding vessel capacity, operating conditions and safety procedures.
The accident occurred on August 11 while the vessel was travelling from Kariba towards remote communities and fishing areas. Initial reports said strong waves contributed to the ferry capsizing.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the search, recovery and identification processes continue.
This is a developing story…..
