More than 20 children killed in DR Congo school fire
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At least 24 schoolchildren dead in DR Congo stampede
Adults are also reported to have died in the fire and there are fears that the death toll could rise further in the densely populated Kadutu commune.
Survivor footage and hospital scenes
Survivors have been taken to nearby hospitals, and footage of the scene shows children lying on hospital floors in pain. Some 300 houses have also been destroyed in the fire, the cause of which is unknown.
Official statements and fears of rising death toll
Rebel-appointed authorities released a provisional death toll of 24 on Thursday evening, confirming previous reports, but there are fears that more people may have died. Pictures circulating on social media show young children lying motionless on the ground.
A witness quoted by Reuters news agency said the fire had been put out by afternoon but smoke was still rising from rubble and corrugated metal.
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