DRC releases boat detained over fears of Ebola on board

Congolese authorities have released a boat detained last week over fears passengers might be carrying the Ebola virus.

Speaking to RFI on Sunday, DR Congo’s health minister said the vessel was mistakenly believed to have originated in Kisangani, where cases of the deadly virus have been detected.

In fact, the boat started in Mongala, which is free of Ebola.

The boat was reported after a passenger was forced to disembark after becoming unwell, with symptoms similar to Ebola infection.

The person later died but no samples were taken, ruling out the possibility of diagnosis. Two children and another adult died aboard but tested negative for the virus. Other passengers showing symptoms were also tested but no cases of Ebola were detected.

Authorities in Kinshasa say they will continue to monitor boats heading downriver within 65 kilometers of the capital. Two barges had already been inspected on Saturday, the minister said.