Kinshasa - Overnight, a landslide in northwestern Congo, triggered by relentless torrential rain, tragically claimed the lives of at least 17 individuals, with authorities cautioning that the casualty count might escalate as rescue teams diligently search for survivors within the wreckage of collapsed residences.

This calamity unfolded along the banks of the Congo River within the town of Lisal, located in the northwestern Mongala province, as reported by Matthieu Mole, president of the civil society group Forces Vives. The victims were residents of houses situated at the base of a mountain.

"A torrential downpour resulted in significant destruction, including a landslide that engulfed multiple homes," he revealed. "The current casualty count is preliminary since bodies are still buried beneath the debris."

Governor Cesar Limbaya Mbangisa emphasized the urgent need for heavy machinery to aid in debris removal and rescue operations. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and declared three days of mourning throughout the province.