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12th Sep 2019

At least 50 people dead after train derails in Congo

Jade Hayden

The incident occurred in the early hours of this morning.

At least 50 people have died after a train derailed in Congo.

The accident happened in the town of Mayibaridi, in the southeastern province of Tanganyika at approximately 3am local time.

Sky News reports that at least 23 people were injured in the derailment, but that the number could rise as more people remain trapped beneath the train.

Minister for humanitarian affairs Steve Mbikayi confirmed the incident today, stating that the Congo government has sent rescue workers to the site.

“Another disaster!” he said on Twitter.

“Derailment at 3am in Tanganyika around Mayibaridi. Provisional balance: 50 dead and several wounded!

“On behalf of the Govt, I offer condolences to the families who have suffered. Meeting in progress with arrangements to be made.”

The cause of the derailment remains unknown.

Topics:

congo,news