Accident – death – Obituary News :

Explosion at Guinea’s Main Fuel Depot Leaves 11 Dead and Dozens Injured

CONAKRY, Guinea — An explosion and inferno at Guinea’s main fuel depot in the capital of Conakry have resulted in the tragic loss of at least 11 lives, with over 80 individuals sustaining serious injuries, according to authorities. The incident occurred on Monday, and the death toll is expected to rise as Guinea awaits assistance from other nations.

The devastating explosion took place at the Guinean Petroleum Company depot, triggering a massive fire shortly after midnight on Sunday. The incident caused significant damage in the Kaloum administrative district, which houses numerous government offices.

Lt. Col. Jean Traoré, the technical director of Guinea’s Civil Protection Service, reported that at least 88 people suffered severe injuries. However, he emphasized that this assessment is provisional and subject to change. The cause of the explosion at the fuel depot, which supplies a majority of Guinea’s fuel, remains unknown. Authorities had been in the process of relocating the depot to a remote site to mitigate the risk of such disasters.

The incident has raised concerns about potential disruptions in fuel supply, as Guinea heavily relies on imported refined petroleum products.

According to a worker at the depot interviewed by Guinee Matin, a Conakry-based news website, the explosion occurred during a ship offloading. The worker, identified as Ahmed Condé, expressed his grief over losing several friends in the fire. He mentioned that many colleagues, including guards and technicians, suffered casualties, and all offices and equipment were destroyed.

Security Minister Bachir Diallo, in a televised statement, reassured the public that the fire has been contained. Additionally, countries such as Senegal and Mali have pledged to send medical and safety teams to assist Guinea.

The blaze engulfed multiple offices and buildings, leading many residents to flee their homes due to the thick smoke that permeated the area.

Resident Mounatou Baldé recounted, “I was sleeping when I heard a whistle, then a deafening explosion.”

In response to the incident, authorities closed schools and public places in the capital. Access to the affected district was restricted, except for essential services. The presidency urged citizens to stay at home for their safety.

Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, who assumed the role of interim president after a coup in 2021, assured that the injured individuals are receiving comprehensive care from the state. He also appealed to the people of Guinea to demonstrate solidarity and offer prayers during this challenging period.

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Associated Press writer Chinedu Asadu in Abuja, Nigeria contributed to this report.

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