An engagement party on the Nile River (Egypt) turned into a tragedy when the boat carrying the fiancé and his guests was struck by a cargo ship. 21 bodies have been recovered.

AFP, citing security and medical sources, reported that the accident occurred on the night of July 22nd local time (morning of July 23rd in Vietnam). To date, rescue teams have recovered 21 bodies. Five others survived, but at least six are still missing.

Security sources said the search for victims was hampered by the darkness of night.

According to initial reports, at least two children were among the dead.

It is understood that the young couple's family and friends rented the boat and held a party to celebrate their engagement. It is currently unclear whether the couple were among the dead.

Police announced the arrest of the captain and first mate of the cargo ship following the accident.

Ship accidents are common on the Nile River and in the waters off Egypt. The most catastrophic accident occurred in February 2006, when a ferry sank in the Red Sea, claiming the lives of over 1,000 people.

(According to AFP/TTO)