Bolivian Navy Boat Sinks on Lake Titicaca, Four Dead

On 9 June 2026 a Bolivian Navy patrol boat operating from the port of Guaqui on Lake Titicaca capsized in strong winds and rough waters while conducting a control operation against illegal fishing and providing assistance to a humanitarian corridor set up for people affected by road blockades. The accident resulted in the deaths of two naval sub‑officers – Sub‑Officer Major Rolando Medardo Flores Arias and Sub‑Officer Initial Miguel Ángel Iver Condori Mamani – and two unidentified civilians. Sub‑Officer Initial Cristian Jesús Huanca Cruz was rescued and received medical care. The bodies of the naval personnel were recovered 3.9 – 4.3 nautical miles from the shoreline of the municipality of Taraco. The Bolivian Navy announced administrative and operational investigations to determine the causes of the sinking and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.

The incident highlights the challenges posed by adverse weather on the lake and the ongoing social tensions that have led to blockades and the need for humanitarian support in the region.