The sinking of the Esther Miracle ferry last week has led to a rising death toll of six, according to officials in Gabon. The ferry was carrying 161 passengers from Libreville to Port-Gentil when it capsized in calm waters on March 9th near Nyonie. With 31 people still missing, rescue teams continue to search the area to locate the shipwreck and find the missing individuals.
Ongoing Search Operations
Despite four days passing since the accident, search operations are still ongoing. Diving teams have been deployed to locate the shipwreck, while the air force has been conducting daily search operations to locate the missing individuals. Modeste Mezui, a pilot, spoke to the state broadcaster and explained that the search operation continues despite the large area of the operation zone.
The Prime Minister of Gabon, Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, also spoke to the state broadcaster Gabon 1ere and emphasized that search operations have been ongoing since the first day. As he said, “We have not stopped the search operations, we have continued them since the first day. As we speak, a boat is at the area with diving teams which are locating the shipwreck.” The search operations show the dedication of the Gabonese government and rescue teams to finding the missing individuals and providing closure to the families of those affected by the tragedy.
Investigation into the Cause of the Accident
Andre Patrick Roponat, the Libreville public prosecutor, confirmed on Thursday that an inquiry had been launched to determine whether negligence, poor maintenance, or factors beyond human control caused the accident. The investigation will aim to provide answers and accountability for the tragedy, with officials considering various factors that may have led to the sinking of the ferry.
Pending the outcome of the investigation, the Gabonese government has suspended all overnight passenger ship voyages until at least March 31st. An audit of all passenger vessels has also been ordered to ensure that all safety measures are up-to-date and that similar accidents are avoided in the future.
Government’s Response to the Accident
The government’s response to the accident has been swift and effective. The air force and diving teams were deployed immediately after the ferry sank, and rescue operations have been ongoing since the first day. The government’s decision to suspend all overnight passenger ship voyages and audit all passenger vessels shows the seriousness of the incident and the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens.
Impact on Survivors and Families of the Victims
The sinking of the Esther Miracle ferry has had a significant impact on the survivors and families of the victims. Most of the 124 survivors were rescued by locals in dugout canoes, fishermen, an oil barge, and a navy patrol boat. These individuals have likely suffered from the traumatic experience and may require support to cope with the aftermath of the accident.
The families of the victims are also likely to be affected significantly by the tragedy. With 31 individuals still missing, the uncertainty surrounding their fate can be emotionally distressing for the families. The ongoing search operations and investigation will hopefully provide closure and answers for the families affected by the tragedy.
