Calls for Independent Probe After Boat Sinkings Kill 33 in Sudan

The Sudanese Emergency Lawyers group called for independent and impartial bodies to investigate two boat sinking incidents that left at least 33 people dead, including women and children, and to determine responsibility and hold those at fault accountable.

In a press statement issued Tuesday, the group said it was following with deep sorrow two river boat accidents — the first in Deim Al-Qarai on February 11, which killed 21 people, and the second in Wad Al-Zaki on February 14, which claimed 12 lives — bringing the confirmed death toll to at least 33, in addition to a number of missing persons.

The group held the government directly responsible, citing negligence and failure to ensure civilian safety. It added that the incidents come amid the ongoing war in Sudan, which has increased civilian vulnerability and exposure to daily risks, describing the tragedies as a direct result of official neglect