Tragedy in Mombasa: Family Holiday Turns Fatal as Boat Capsizes in Indian Ocean, Two Siblings Die

 A family holiday in Mombasa ended in tragedy after a boat carrying five relatives capsized in the Indian Ocean.

Two siblings died in the incident while three others were injured.

The family from Western Kenya had spent the day touring Fort Jesus before hiring a boat for a short trip.

The accident happened near the channel leading to Mombasa Beach when strong waves struck the vessel as they were heading back.

Kethy Barasa, sister to the victims, recounted the harrowing moments. She said she tried to save her sister after the boat overturned, but her sister panicked and later fainted, making rescue difficult.

The deceased were identified as Ken Barasa Okomol, a Malaba South MCA aspirant, and his sister Cynthia Barasa.

Their bodies were recovered on Sunday and taken to Coast General Hospital mortuary.

The three other relatives survived with injuries and were admitted to the hospital for treatment.

Boat operator Volca Dunga attributed the accident to deteriorating weather conditions. He said storm clouds had gathered after heavy overnight rainfall and he was forced to steer back to shore before the vessel capsized.

In response, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir ordered immediate inspections of all passenger boats operating along the Coast.

He said the county government, working with the Kenya Maritime Authority, will ensure vessels meet safety standards to protect residents and tourists.

Authorities are investigating whether safety measures were observed at the time of the accident.