Godwin Angalia Kasigwa, resident district commissioner for neighboring Kikuube district where the vessel had departed, told Xinhua by phone that search and rescue operations are ongoing.

“We have so far recovered eight bodies but the water is still high,” said Kasigwa, also a member of the on-site security team.

He added that the army has joined the rescue efforts alongside the marine police and local responders. “The military joined the mission and we hope to recover more bodies,” he said.

Police said the vessel, carrying an estimated 35 to 40 passengers, overturned Tuesday night at Kyaleni Village.

Earlier reports indicated that one survivor had been rescued, but the exact number of missing persons remains unclear due to the absence of a passenger manifest.

Kasigwa warned residents against encroaching on forest reserves for charcoal burning, noting that the passengers aboard the ill-fated canoe were reportedly returning from such activities in Kikuube.

Authorities have urged relatives of those who may have been on board to report to Kagadi Central Police Station as efforts continue to account for all passengers. ■

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