Three people, whose full identities are yet to be established, drowned in Akagera River while trying to cross into Tanzania.

The incident occurred on Monday when a boat carrying five passengers was hit by a massive wave and capsized in the process.

The victims, all Rwandans, were residents of Kayonza, Ngoma and Nyagatare districts and were allegedly trying to cross into Tanzania.

The victims have only been identified as Bizimana from Ngoma District, Rwabufigiri of Kayonza District and a one James thought to have come from Nyagatare District.

According to residents, two of the victims were fishermen, while the other was a farmer.

The two survivors were identified as Jean-Claude Ndahayo of Rwinkwavu sector in Kayonza District, and Augustin Nyandwi, the owner of the boat.

One managed to hang onto a floating object, while the other successfully swam across the river.

Pierre Ndahiro, the Executive Secretary of Nasho Cell in Nasho Sector, said the bodies had not yet been recovered and the chances of finding them were very minimal since there are crocodiles in the river.

"We are now trying to establish the next of kin to get their full particulars,” he said.

Ndahiro also warned residents against using unlicensed boats.

Speaking to The New Times, the Police spokesperson for Eastern Region, Inspector of Police Emmanuel Kayigi, said the Force would use their specialized gear in an effort to recover the bodies.

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