In Gabon, almost a month after the sinking of the ferry Esther Miracle which sank on March 9, there is almost no hope of finding survivors. The families still hoped that the remains of the seven people still missing would be found, but this Wednesday, April 5, the government announced the official end of the search.
With our correspondent in Libreville, Yves Laurent Goma
The official statement announcing the end of the search was made in the early evening by the minister and government spokesman, Yves Fernand Manfoumbi. ” For 10 days, searches have been unsuccessful. Only suitcases and other personal effects of the ship’s passengers were found. Also, in accordance with the technical opinion, the cell in charge of search operations, the government has decided to officially end maritime searches as of today. “, he said.
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Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie By Nze had received behind closed doors at the headquarters of the Red Cross the families whose missing parents have not yet been found. It was to inform them of this government decision. ” NOTWe are unfortunately forced to stop the search there, but the State stands by the side of the families to support them and naturally, we will do our best to ensure that the families benefit from this support, both moral and psychological. “said the Prime Minister.
The official toll of this shipwreck is 30 dead, 7 missing and 124 survivors. The government has announced that death certificates will be issued to the families of the disappeared to allow them to grieve.
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