THREE BODIES RECOVERED AS SEARCH FOR ETHIOPIAN MIGRANTS CONTINUES IN ZAMBEZI RIVER
By ZR Reporter
Three bodies have so far been recovered following last week’s tragic drowning of Ethiopian nationals who were attempting to illegally cross the Zambezi River into Botswana, the Zambia Police Service has confirmed.
Police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi said the bodies were retrieved during a joint search operation involving the Zambia Police Service, the Zambia Army, the Department of Immigration, and the Kazungula Town Council.
The victims are believed to be among the 10 Ethiopian nationals who reportedly drowned after a canoe capsized on the night of July 13, 2026, near Mwaanga Village in Kazungula District.
According to police, two of the recovered bodies have been positively identified as Ethiopian nationals, while the identity of the third victim has not yet been established.
Mr. Chilabi said the bodies were buried in Kazungula District due to their condition at the time they were recovered.
Meanwhile, search efforts for the remaining missing persons are still underway, with authorities saying updates will be provided as the operation continues.
The tragedy has once again highlighted the dangers faced by migrants who attempt to use irregular and often hazardous routes in search of opportunities across international borders.
© Zambia Reports | July 2026
