Death toll in Oti River canoe tragedy rises to six

The death toll from the canoe accident at Salnaayili in the Nanumba North Municipality of the Northern Region has risen to six following the recovery of the last missing passenger from the Oti River.

The deceased comprise four women, one man and a baby.

The tragedy occurred on the evening of Tuesday, July 7, 2026, when eight people returning from a funeral attempted to cross the river in a canoe without wearing life jackets.

Reports indicate that the canoe, which was carrying the passengers and their luggage, was overloaded. During the crossing, the vessel reportedly began taking in water before capsizing midway through the journey.

Three bodies were recovered shortly after the accident, while three other occupants, including the baby, were declared missing as rescue teams and local volunteers continued search operations.

By Wednesday evening, rescuers had retrieved two additional bodies, and the final missing victim was recovered on Thursday evening, bringing the total number of fatalities to six.

Meanwhile, the Municipal Chief Executive for Nanumba North, Abdul Samed Hamza, on Thursday visited the bereaved families to express the government's condolences and assure them of its support during the difficult period.

As part of efforts to improve water transport safety and prevent similar tragedies, the Municipal Chief Executive also donated life jackets to canoe operators in the area.