Mayotte boat pilot sentenced to four years for fatal collision

A man in his forties has been sentenced to four years in prison for involuntary homicide following a fatal collision off the coast of Sada. The incident occurred on July 15, 2025, when a kwassa boat collided with a Border Police (PAF) interceptor.

The collision resulted in the deaths of one man and one woman, while eight other individuals were injured and treated at the Mayotte Hospital Center (CHM). According to investigation reports, the PAF interceptor issued orders for the boat to stop, but the vessel accelerated. The pilot reportedly lost control of the boat after letting go of the helm, leading to the impact.

During the trial, the defendant denied being the pilot, claiming he was only on board to refuel the engine. However, the prosecution maintained that witness testimony identified him as the person in control. Despite defense arguments questioning the certification of the police interceptor, the court sentenced the defendant to four years in prison, a permanent ban from French territory, and a 1,000 euro fine.