Portugal Condoles Cape Verde After Fatal Fogo Island Bus Crash
Portuguese President António José Seguro has extended his deepest condolences to Cape Verdean President José Maria Neves following a catastrophic bus accident on Fogo Island that claimed at least 25 lives.
The tragedy occurred on Saturday when a bus transporting a group of children and young people careened off the road in the locality of Campanas de Cima. According to the São Filipe Municipal Council, the vehicle plunged approximately 30 meters down an embankment. The accident has left the island nation in mourning and triggered a swift international response.
Portugal Stands in Solidarity
In a statement released on the Presidency’s official website, President Seguro expressed “deep dismay” over the loss of life. He reached out to President Neves to offer his personal sympathies and those of the Portuguese people.
“The President of the Republic offers heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and all the people of Cape Verde, as well as wishes for a speedy recovery to those injured in this tragic accident,” the note stated.
A Community in Crisis
The scale of the disaster is still being assessed. Official sources report that at least 22 people died at the scene or shortly after, with the death toll reportedly rising to 25. Among the survivors, 18 children aged between six and 11 remain hospitalized, four of whom are in critical condition.
Local authorities in the municipality of Santa Catarina do Fogo have declared two days of municipal mourning. An extraordinary meeting was convened Sunday to organize support for the bereaved families and coordinate the emergency response.
National Leaders Respond
Cape Verdean President José Maria Neves took to social media to share his grief, offering prayers for the victims and their families. Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho also expressed the government’s profound regret, praising the tireless efforts of rescue teams and healthcare professionals working to save the survivors.
“We extend our total solidarity to the injured and the entire population of Fogo during this incredibly difficult time,” Prime Minister Carvalho said, acknowledging the local volunteers who rushed to the scene to assist in the rescue operation.
Image: Pexels – Hans Eiskonen
