There is a crisis after another unfortunate incident occurred in Kribi, as a lifeless body was found on Ngoye Beach this morning. This is the second incident of drowning at the well-known tourist spot in just one week, sparking worries about beach safety and the risks associated with the unpredictable waters.
An unidentified body was discovered washed ashore early on Wednesday morning, February 22nd. This alarming finding was made shortly after a different young man tragically drowned at the identical beach, causing a wave of shock in the Kribi community.
“It’s truly unbelievable,” said a distressed beach vendor, her voice trembling. “Two fatalities in less than a week… this beach is becoming increasingly dangerous.”
Residents provide insight into the dangerous conditions of the waters, attributing the recent drownings to a variety of factors. Although the water level has decreased from previous months, powerful currents and sudden riptides continue to pose a significant danger.
“The sea can be calm one minute and then turn wild the next,” shared a fisherman, his weathered face showing signs of worry. Even individuals with a lot of swimming experience can be taken by surprise.
The absence of lifeguards at Ngoye Beach heightens the concerns. Without properly trained staff to supervise swimmers and handle emergencies, the potential dangers increase substantially.
“It’s akin to navigating blindly,” expressed a tourist who narrowly avoided a riptide earlier this week. There is no assistance available if you encounter any difficulties.
After these unfortunate incidents, there is a growing demand for enhanced safety measures. Residents and visitors are calling on officials to station lifeguards, put up signs about riptides and currents, and provide information to tourists about the risks.
“Action is what we need, not mere words,” insisted a community leader, his voice resonating with shared sorrow and exasperation. “These deaths are preventable, and we can’t afford to lose another life. Kribi is truly in crisis.”
As investigations into both drownings continue, Kribi is facing the harsh truth of its picturesque beaches, which conceal unseen hazards. The serene coastline, formerly a peaceful retreat for leisure and fun, now harbours a sense of unease, leading to pressing inquiries on how to guarantee the well-being of its visitors.
It is yet to be determined if stricter regulations, improved signage, or the addition of lifeguards will be sufficient to make a difference. But one thing is for sure: the carefree days spent playing in the Kribi waters now serve as an unsettling symbol of the ocean’s formidable power, emphasising the importance of safety and reverence for its unpredictable behaviour.
