Police arrest RIDA official over Kariba ferry deaths

Police arrested Kariba Rural Infrastructure Development Agency District Coordinator Ignatius Chiome, 49, on Wednesday and charged him with culpable homicide following the Lake Kariba ferry disaster that killed 97 people, making him the first official arrested in connection with the tragedy. The court remanded him in custody after he appeared in court. Chiome appeared before the Kariba Magistrates' Court, and the court remanded him in custody after the ferry capsized on Lake Kariba, one of Africa's largest man-made lakes, killing 97 people in Zimbabwe's worst recorded accident, with the ferry carrying over 100 passengers. The disaster has raised questions about safety regulations and oversight. Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest, and investigations continue to determine the cause and whether other officials will face charges, as the public demands accountability and highlights the need for improved maritime safety. The disaster remains Zimbabwe's worst recorded accident in history.