By Kimberly Kalusi
Rescue operations are ongoing off the coast of Mombasa after a boat carrying an unknown number of passengers capsized early Monday morning. The incident occurred near Old Port, prompting an immediate response from the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS), local fishermen, and volunteers who rushed to save those trapped in the turbulent waters.
According to eyewitnesses, the vessel appeared to be overloaded when strong waves hit, causing it to overturn just minutes after departure. “We heard screams and saw people struggling in the water. Fishermen nearby acted fast to pull several to safety,” said Hassan Omar, a resident of the area.
The Kenya Red Cross has confirmed that several people have been rescued and taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, while a search for the missing continues. Authorities have cordoned off the area as emergency teams work against time, with divers combing the waters for survivors. The exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed as investigations into the cause of the tragedy continue.
