An explosion at a fuel depot in Cotonou, Benin Republic, has claimed the lives of 34 people.
On Saturday, a government official confirmed the incident to journalists.
According to the official, at least 34 people were killed when a contraband fuel dump in southern Benin, close to the border with Nigeria, exploded.
“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.”
Another 20 people, including those with serious bodily injuries, who are victims of the explosion, are being treated in hospitals, according to the ministry.
