Scores dead as Tanzanian ferry capsizes

As many as 200 people have died after an overloaded ferry sank off the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar.

The MV Spice Islanders was sailing between the islands of Unguja and Pemba, ferrying people back from holiday at the end of Ramadan.

It capsized in an area of deep seas, heavy winds and strong currents.

Tanzanian emergency services say that 325 passengers survived the tragedy.

The vessel, built in 1967, was crammed with people and many refused to board the ship at the mainland port of Dar es Salam.

The Red Cross say that many of the victims are women and children.

Tanzanian authorities have set up a rescue centre and called on the international community for help.

As news filtered through thousands gathered at the docks of Stone Town anxiously awaiting information on the fate of those on board.

Many expressed anger that the ferry had been allowed to leave port in such an overcrowded state and called on officials to resign.

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