Search Continues After Tanzania Ferry Sinks

Posted September 11th, 2011 at 8:30 am (UTC-5)
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Search-and-rescue efforts continued Sunday off the coast of Tanzania where an overcrowded ferry capsized, killing at least 192 people.

More than 600 survivors were plucked from the water after the boat sank Saturday. Searchers said it is unlikely they will find more survivors at this point but expect to recover more bodies from the underwater wreckage.

The ferry, the MV Spice Islander, capsized during a trip around the three islands that make up Tanzania's Zanzibar archipelago.

The ship was carrying about 200 passengers beyond its recommended capacity, in addition to cargo that included cars and building materials.

Bodies were being laid out at a Zanzibar sports field for identification prior to burial. Relatives of the dead are blaming government officials for the tragedy, saying they failed to enforce boat safety standards.

Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete has declared three days of national mourning for the victims.