An explosion at an illegal fuel storage facility in Cotonou, Republic of Benin, has claimed the lives of 34 people, as confirmed by a government official on Saturday.
The official stated that a contraband fuel depot caught fire in southern Benin near the Nigerian border, resulting in this tragic incident.
“A serious fire occurred in the town of Seme Podji,” Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou told reporters.
“Unfortunately we have 34 deaths including two babies. Their bodies are charred because the cause of the fire is smuggled fuel.”
The minister also noted that an additional 20 individuals, some in critical condition, were receiving medical treatment.
Fuel smuggling is a prevalent issue along Nigeria’s borders, given its status as a major oil and gas producer, particularly when the government subsidized petrol to maintain lower prices.