Edmond Akli, the driver of the boat that capsized on the Volta Lake in the East Gonja District, an incident that claimed about nine lives, has recounted how the tragedy occurred.

Speaking to TV3 on April 9, 2026, Edmond explained that the boat set off from Yeji around 3:00 p.m., but encountered strong winds midway through the journey, which made it difficult to maintain control.

According to him, the worsening weather conditions affected navigation, and he attempted to steer the boat to a safer area where passengers could be safely disembarked, but he was unable to do so.

He added that the strong winds unsettled the passengers, making it difficult for him to maintain control of the boat.

Tragedy on Volta Lake: 7 dead, 2 missing after boat capsizes

He explained that panic among those on board worsened the situation, as passengers who were expected to remain calm and seated instead stood up during the turbulence, which eventually caused the boat to capsize.

“When the wind first blew, they were supposed to stay calm and let me, as the driver, take control. But they panicked and stood up, which led to the boat capsizing,” he said.

Edmond Akli also disclosed that there were 16 people on board the “flying boat,” including himself and his mate at the time of the accident.

He further stated that after the boat overturned, only he and his mate were able to swim. They attempted to rescue passengers and managed to save at least four people, but were unable to save others in time and could not secure immediate external assistance.

The incident occurred between Sikakope and Mataiko along the Yeji–Congo route. Out of those on board, seven people have been confirmed dead, including five children and two women, while five males were rescued.

Reports indicate that none of the passengers were wearing life jackets at the time of the accident.

Search and rescue operations are still ongoing as emergency teams and local volunteers continue efforts to locate remaining victims.



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