Four Children Killed, 12 Injured In Latest Boat Capsize In Zamfara

Four Children Killed, 12 Injured In Latest Boat Capsize In Zamfara

A boat carrying 46 passengers capsized in Mashayar Garba Rogo, Bukkuyum town, Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State, resulting in the death of four children. The incident occurred around 10:30 am on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, just a week after a similar accident in Gummi Local Government Area claimed over 30 lives.

Local resident Malam Aliyu Umar Bukkuyum reported that two of the deceased children’s bodies have been recovered, while the other two remain missing. Twelve individuals are currently hospitalized at General Hospital Bukkuyum, where they are receiving treatment.

Survivor Buhari Usman, also known as Messi, stated that the boat, which had about 50 passengers—mainly children—was en route across the Zamfara River to their farms. Midway through the journey, the boat began to behave erratically and eventually capsized despite the crew’s attempts to stabilize it.

Usman recounted, “I personally rescued 12 children and several adults. While we managed to save many, four children unfortunately died. Two bodies have been found, and we are still searching for the other two.”

Bukkuyum Sole Administrator Hon. Nasiru Muhammad (DG) confirmed the accident, attributing it to overloading, anxiety, and non-compliance with proper boating practices. He assured that the government is providing care for the 12 rescued victims and pledged to implement measures to prevent future accidents.

Search operations are ongoing to find the two missing passengers.