Five Dead in SNCC Train Derailment Near Kabanda Bridge

Kinshasa, February 8, 2026 - On Saturday, January 31, a train operated by the National Railway Company of Congo (SNCC) derailed in Tanganyika province, resulting in five deaths and multiple injuries. Two of the victims were burned beyond recognition.

The Bana-Katanga train left the tracks and plunged into a ravine near the Kabanda bridge, between the villages of Kiluba and Makala, causing a fire and significant material damage.

According to Norris Mulongoy, provincial Minister of Transport for Tanganyika, the accident was caused by the poor condition of the tracks. Several injured passengers were transferred to Kalemie for medical care.

“The locomotive left the tracks before plunging into the ravine, causing a fire. Five people-three men, a woman, and a baby-were burned beyond recognition. This morning, the provincial government dispatched a team that provided details of the tragedy,” Mulongoy said.

Authorities continue to search for any additional bodies in the wreckage. Some local sources suggest the death toll may be higher, reporting eight dead and five injured.