There are fears that the number of casualties could rise as search and rescue efforts continue.

Over 160 people are still missing as a result of the incident, which occured on Friday near the city of Mbandaka in the north-west.

Reports suggest the boat, which was sailing at night in breach of regulations, might have been overloaded.

Officials say it was carrying more than 300 people, as well as cargo, including cement, fuel and iron bars.

In the absence of a national road network, river transport is commonly used in DR Congo, and accidents are frequent.