The death toll from a shipwreck last Friday in Bangui, capital of the Central African Republic (CAR), has risen to 62, locals and authorities said on Sunday.
The country's President Faustin Touadera has declared three days of national mourning for victims of the boat disaster.
The vessel, which sank on the Mpoko River was ferrying more than 300 people, including children and women.
The passengers were heading to the village of Mokelo in the commune of Bimbo, about 45 kilometers from Bangui, for the burial of a group leader, according to witnesses.
"The tragedy occurred a few minutes after the captain started the engine. The boat broke up due to overloading. There were about a hundred people on the roof made of sheet metal and boards. When the boat broke in two, the roof collapsed. The passengers below, mostly women and children, were injured by spikes, metal sheets, pieces of boards and other sharp objects. Some had broken bones. Many drowned and a few chose to swim. I saw how a woman carrying two children called for help in vain," said Antoine, a fisherman.
Many people are still unaccounted for and the death toll is expected to rise as search operations continue.
"I have not yet found my sister. She has children. I ask the rescuers to continue the search, there are still bodies under the water. Our parents are still missing. The authorities should help us," said Ako, sister of a victim.
On Saturday, a government spokesman said an investigation into the incident will be launched, adding that a fund will also be set up to support the families of the victims.
Several opposition parties in the country are also expressing solidarity with affected families.
62 dead in shipwreck, CAR President declares 3 days of mourning
62 dead in shipwreck, CAR President declares 3 days of mourning
62 dead in shipwreck, CAR President declares 3 days of mourning
62 dead in shipwreck, CAR President declares 3 days of mourning
