A tragic canoe accident has claimed the lives of 15 people in the Krachi West District of the Oti Region.
According to eyewitness accounts, the mourners were en route to attend a funeral when water began to overflow into the canoe on the Oti River between Okuma-Akura and Debume on Saturday, October 11, 2025.
In an attempt to scoop the water out, one of the passengers accidentally dropped the container being used, causing panic and instability that led to the vessel overturning.
The Assembly Member for the area confirmed the incident to Adom News, saying there were about 21 people on board the canoe at the time.
Fifteen people were confirmed dead, while six others were rescued and taken to the hospital for treatment. They have since been discharged.
The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the Worawora Government Hospital for autopsy.
In a shocking revelation, reports indicate that the canoe was being operated by a 14-year-old boy.
The incident has thrown the entire community into mourning, as families and friends struggle to come to terms with the devastating loss.
