17 killed as dragon boats capsize

Seventeen people drowned after two dragon boats capsized today while rehearsing for a race in a river in southern China.

Rowers were practicing for a race in Taohuajiang River in Guilin city when two boats capsized, tipping 57 people into the water.

Around 40 of them were pulled out alive while 17 drowned in the river, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

Authorities in Guilin said villagers in Dunmu had organised the practice session without notifying police.

Two organisers have been detained.