Deadly Landslide in Congo Leaves Many Missing

KINSHASA, Congo – April 15, 2024

A devastating landslide triggered by heavy rains has struck southwestern Congo, leaving at least 15 people confirmed dead and many more missing. The incident occurred near the port town of Idiofa on Saturday, according to local officials. Image Source: arise.tv

“There’s a hill above the port, and the rain caused the earth on the hill to collapse,” said Dhedhe Mupasa, a local deputy elected official, speaking to reporters on Sunday.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, with a team dispatched to search for survivors. While seven people were pulled alive from the debris and hospitalized, officials fear the number of casualties could rise significantly. Interim provincial governor Félicien Kiway stated that as many as 60 people remain unaccounted for.

The cause of the landslide is attributed to heavy rainfall in the area. The extent of the damage and the condition of those missing are still under assessment. This tragedy highlights the vulnerability of communities in regions prone to landslides, particularly during periods of heavy precipitation.

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