An overloaded passenger ferry capsized on the Kasai River in the Bandundu Province, resulting in a significant loss of lives. The vessel, carrying many more passengers than its designated capacity, was navigating the river when it encountered difficulties that ultimately caused it to overturn. Such incidents are unfortunately not uncommon in the region, where lax enforcement of safety regulations and overcrowding on ferries can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Witness reports indicated that the ferry was trying to make it to a port when it began to struggle against the river's currents.

Rescue operations faced numerous challenges, primarily due to the remote location and difficult access to the capsizing site. Local communities rallied to assist in search and rescue efforts, but the timber-laden waters blurred visibility and slowed down progress. Initial reports indicated that at least 80 people lost their lives, with many others injured and unaccounted for. Families of the victims expressed their grief as they awaited news of their loved ones. Emergency services and local government officials began an inquiry to determine the precise factors that led to the capsizing incident.

In the aftermath, questions about ferry safety protocols and regulations were thrust into the spotlight, prompting discussions about the lack of resources and oversight for maritime transportation in the region. The loss was felt deeply within the local and wider Congolese communities, and there was a renewed call for better enforcement of safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.