At least 25 killed by high-voltage cable in DR Congo

KIGALI, Rwanda

At least 25 people were killed when a high-voltage power cable fell in a market on the outskirts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s capital Kinshasa, authorities said on Wednesday.

The incident happened in Kinshasa’s Matadi-Kibala district during early morning rainfall.

Videos from the market shared online showed several bodies in puddles of water.

“Several people died on the spot. The victims included 23 women, mostly vendors at the market,” Lyly Tambwe, the district police commander told reporters.

Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde said the accident could have been caused by bad weather.

However, a statement from the presidency said investigations will be conducted to “shed more light on the causes of the tragedy and those responsible will have to answer for it.”

“On Jan. 7, President Felix Tshisekedi issued orders for the speedy relocation of the Matadi-Kibala market in view of the danger that its current location posed to the population,” read a statement.

It said Tshisekedi has asked relevant authorities to provide all necessary assistance to the victims.

“A monitoring committee has been set up to prepare the construction of a large logistics center suitable for the distribution and trade of agricultural products consumed in the provinces of Kinshasa and Kongo central,” the statement added.