The death toll has risen to 119 from a fire at a poultry abattoir in north-east China's Jilin Province.

Latest reports are that the fire is still raging and fire-fighting crews are on the scene along with rescue personnel. The fire broke out early Monday morning at the slaughterhouse in Mishazi Township of Dehui City.

The fire appeared to have been sparked by three explosions in the farm's electrical system although investigations are still continuing to determine the cause.

The complicated interior structure of the pre-fabricated plant and the narrow exits have added to the difficulties in rescue work. The exact number of those trapped inside has still not been confirmed. The plant's owner, Jilin Baoyuanfeng Poultry Company is a major producer of processed chicken and employs about 1,200 people.

The death toll has risen to 119 from a fire at a poultry abattoir in north-east China's Jilin Province.