A devastating accident unfolded on the Congo River, claiming the lives of at least 30 individuals when a boat capsized near Mbandaka in north-western Democratic Republic of the Congo.

There are grave concerns that the casualty count could surge as search and rescue operations persist.

The incident, which transpired on a Friday, left more than 160 people unaccounted for. Preliminary reports indicate that the boat was navigating at night in violation of regulations and may have been excessively laden.

Authorities disclosed that it was transporting over 300 passengers and a cargo load encompassing cement, fuel, and iron bars.

With the absence of a comprehensive national road network, river transportation is a prevailing mode of travel in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, often accompanied by frequent accidents.