Two people were reported dead after a boat carrying twelve passengers capsized at Pirates Beach Mombasa.
Mombasa County Police Commander Stephen Matu said the two were among twelve family members who had travelled from Nairobi and had hired a boat for a short trip into the deep seas off the usually crowded public beach in the outskirts of Mombasa city.
According to police, one member is still in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Infants aged between three and five months, who were part of the family during the incident, are in stable condition.
The others were successfully rescued as lifesavers and well-wishers answered their distress calls.
They were rushed to a private hospital in Mombasa for treatment.
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“I call on Kenyans and visitors visiting Mombasa to exercise caution, especially during this time,” Matu added.
Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) intensified the beach-safety awareness campaign to sensitize the public.
“Professional lifeguards have taken up watch of the beaches with KMA ensuring visitors stick to the dos and don’ts at the recreational area,”
“We are striving to have zero per cent incidents during the festive season.” KMA chairman Hamisi Mwaguya said.
“It is unfortunate that we have had this incident as the holidays are just starting. I want to urge holidaymakers to be careful as they enjoy the oceans and the beach,” he added.
He asked Kenyans to make sure they are wearing safety jackets when boarding boats.