34 die as fuel depot explodes in Benin Republic

An explosion at a contraband fuel depot located in the southern Benin town of Seme Podji in Benin Republic has claimed lives of at least 34 people, including two babies, while sources disclosed that another 20 people were being treated in hospital for injuries.

Penpushing reports that sources disclosed that the explosion happened on Saturday at scene where cars, motorbikes and tricycle taxis come to stock up on fuel, adding that as at the time of this report dozens of charred bodies were at the site.

The sources added that most of the fuel along this axis is smuggled into the Benin Republic from its oil-rich neighbour Nigeria, pointing out that even though such activities are prohibited by the authorities and seen as illegal.

Penpushing further reports that Benin’s Interior Minister Alassane Seidou, while addressing journalists over the ugly development, described the explosion as a serious fire that had occurred in the town, but gave no further details.

The Minister said another 20 people were being treated in hospital, including some in serious condition, lamenting that it was unfortunate that 34 deaths including two babies were killed, and their bodies are charred

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