A devastating boat accident on the Volta Lake has claimed the lives of nine people, including women and children, in what is being described as one of the most heartbreaking incidents in recent times.
The tragedy occurred on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, along the Yeji–Congo route between Sikakope and Mataiko in the East Gonja District. The boat, which was carrying 14 passengers, reportedly capsized around 5:30 p.m. due to bad weather conditions.
In a deeply painful turn of events, one man is said to have lost almost his entire family in the disaster — including his three wives, five children, and his mother.
Confirming the incident, Salaga District Police Commander, DSP Gabriel Kofi Alorsey, stated that search and rescue operations are still ongoing.
So far, seven bodies have been recovered, while efforts continue to locate the remaining missing victims.
Five men were successfully rescued during the operation. However, authorities have raised serious concerns over the lack of life jackets on board, which may have contributed to the high number of casualties.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for stricter safety measures on inland water transport, particularly on major routes like the Volta Lake.
