At least 38 people have died, and over 100 remain missing after a ferry sank in the Busira River, northeast Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), officials reported.
The ferry, traveling late Friday, carried passengers returning home for Christmas. Joseph Kangolingoli, mayor of Ingende, confirmed that 20 survivors have been rescued so far. The vessel was part of a convoy and reportedly carried over 400 passengers, as it made stops at Ingende and Loolo en route to Boende.
Ndolo Kaddy, a resident of Ingende, expressed concern that the death toll could rise significantly, citing the overcrowded nature of the ferry. The Associated Press noted similar concerns. 
This tragedy occurred just days after another boat accident claimed 25 lives in northeastern DRC. Congolese officials have frequently cautioned against overloading vessels and promised stricter enforcement of safety measures. Yet, in remote areas where roads are scarce, river travel often remains the only affordable option for many.
The incident marks the latest in a series of deadly waterway disasters in DRC. In October, 78 people drowned after a boat capsized on Lake Kivu, and in June, 80 lives were lost on the Kwa River in Mai-Ndombe province.
Rescue operations are ongoing, but the central government has yet to issue a detailed statement on the incident.
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