A funeral return journey from Burkina Faso turned tragic Sunday when a canoe capsized on the Black Volta River at Bankpama in Wa West District, claiming two lives.
The boat, carrying six people, overturned midstream on July 20, 2025. Four passengers swam to safety, but two others were swept away by strong currents.
Assembly Member Nyord John confirmed to Asaase News that immediate search efforts led to the recovery of one body by midday Tuesday, July 22. Police supervised its burial while the search continues for the second victim. “The police and NADMO are actively involved at the scene,” John stated, noting the community’s reliance on unsafe river crossings.
John highlighted recurrent risks: “We’ve seen similar accidents before due to operating canoes without life jackets.” Following past incidents, residents had considered crowdfunding safety gear. In response, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has now pledged to provide life jackets to local canoe operators to prevent future tragedies.
The accident underscores transportation vulnerabilities in border communities. Police investigations continue as recovery operations persist along the river.
