Four Lives Lost In Apac Canoe Accident: Flooded Roads, Alcohol Contribute To Fatal Capsizing

In a heartbreaking incident on December 5, at around 5:00 pm, a canoe carrying passengers from Alworoceng village to Amii-Amilo parish in Ibuje, Apac district capsized, resulting in the loss of four lives. Apac Resident District Commissioner, George Abudul, identified the victims as Emmanuel Ongora (1), Jackline Acio (8), Asante Odongo (12), and Patrick Ebong (24).

The survivors, identified as Winnie Anyango (22), Isaac Oula (3), and Walter Ogwal (the canoe operator), managed to escape the tragic fate. Abudul revealed that the group chose to use a canoe due to a flooded road connecting the two villages. Unfortunately, he added, the canoe operator and others were under the influence of alcohol at the time.

Community members played a crucial role in recovering all four bodies, which have been handed over to the grieving relatives for burial. Abudul emphasized the importance of careful route planning, advising road users to avoid heavily flooded and cut-off roads to prevent accidents and fatalities.

Expressing his concerns, Abudul cautioned against driving or walking through flooded areas, highlighting the difficulty in determining water depth and strength, which can lead to property loss and tragic outcomes.

Sam Opira, the district secretary for health and education, attributed the accident to the damaged road connecting Amii and Alworoceng, making it impassable. The incident underscores the need for infrastructure improvements and heightened awareness regarding the risks associated with traveling in adverse weather conditions.