Zanzibar Boat Accident: Rescue efforts hampered by bad weather

The rescue process of survivors of the ill fated MV Skagit that capsized this afternoon is being hampered by bad weather.

So far, 12 bodies have been retrieved, 38 rescued and over 200 are still missing in the Zanzibar boat accident.

The boat, Mv Skagit capsized near Chumbe Islet in Zanzibar, 13.8km from Zanzibar port this afternoon.

The boat which had 251 passengers plus 9 crew on board and was heading to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam.

MV Skagit capsized after being hit by strong winds accompanied by heavy waves.

Zanzibar’s Minister in the State, President’s Office, Dr Mwinyihaji Makame confirmed that 12 dead and 38 had been rescued so far.

The ship had carried 31 children and some tourists whose number had not been established so far.

Dr Mkame stated that rescue operations were going on and involving Mv Flying Horse, Mv Kilimanjaro III, Zanzibar Ports, Special Anti-Smuggling Force (KMKM), Mv Zanzibar I, police Patrol Boat and Navy.
 
A statement issued by Surface and Marine Transport (SUMATRA) Public Affairs Manager Mr David Mziray pointed out that the ship left Dar es Salaam around 12.5pm and issued alert signal few minutes later after reaching Chumbe Islet.

He also hinted that Mv Skagit was given certificate of standards on August 24, 2011 which was to expire on August 23, this year.

He further said that the ship was being owned by Seagul Transport company wand was registered by Zanzibar Marine Authority (ZMA).

It has capacity of carrying 300 passengers and 26 tonnes of cargo.