Deadly Fire and Explosions at Military Ammunition Depot in Chad's Capital
An unknown number of people have been killed and injured after a fire triggered a series of blasts at a military ammunition depot in Chad's capital, N'Djamena. The fire began in N'Djamena's Goudji district late on Tuesday, causing huge explosions, as reported by Foreign Affairs Minister Koulamallah Abderaman in a statement on Facebook. President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno confirmed that people had lost their lives and sustained injuries in the tragic incident. He expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and pledged to open an investigation into the cause of the fire.
Witnesses in the area reported seeing injured individuals being rushed to hospitals and homes damaged by artillery shells that fell nearby. Residents described the terrifying experience of waking up to loud blasts and the sight of a massive fire at the military camp. The destructive impact of the explosions was felt by many in the neighborhood, with houses shaking and roofs being blown off. The proximity of the ammunition depot to residential areas, the international airport, and a French military base heightened the severity of the situation.
The explosions were caused by ammunition of various calibers igniting during the fire, according to an official from the French forces who spoke on condition of anonymity to AFP. The incident has sparked concern and mourning among the population, as the extent of the damage and the number of casualties remain uncertain. The authorities are working to assess the aftermath of the tragedy and provide support to those affected. Our thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones during this difficult time.
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