Seven young people are feared dead after reportedly drowning in the Moa River in Kenema District on Thursday, May 15, according to the Sierra Leone Police.

The victims have been identified as Messie Wongo, Mamie Sellu, Mary Sannoh, Mamie Sillah, Foday Wai, and Joshua Musa, all residents of Q-Line, Kpayama Section in Kenema District. Police said the group had gathered at the river to celebrate the birthday of Joshua Musa, who had travelled from Makeni to mark the occasion with friends.

Preliminary investigations conducted by the Kenema Police Division revealed that the tragedy occurred while the group was swimming in the river. Reports from the scene indicate that one of the victims, Messie Wongo, began struggling in the water due to the strong current. In an attempt to rescue her, the others reportedly dived into the river but were also swept away by the heavy current.

Police said they were alerted to the incident shortly after it occurred, prompting Inspector Conteh and a team from the Kenema Division to visit the scene and commence investigations.

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The incident has left residents of Kpayama Section in deep shock and mourning. Seibatu Sillah, the elder sister of one of the deceased, described the tragedy as devastating for both her family and the wider community.

Authorities say investigations into the incident are ongoing, and the public will be updated as more information becomes available.

The tragedy has also renewed concerns over the dangers posed by the Moa River during the rainy season, when rising water levels and stronger currents significantly increase the risk of drowning. Residents say heavy rains can make the river more dangerous, particularly for swimmers and those unfamiliar with changing water conditions. Community members are now calling for increased public awareness and safety measures to help prevent similar incidents as the rains intensify across the district.