Oil tanker explosion kills at least 99, injures over 100
08 November 2021
At least 99 people were killed and over 100 others were injured on November 5 after an oil tanker exploded in Sierra Leone, western Africa. The incident occurred after crowds gathered on the outskirt’s of the country’s capital Freetown to collect leaking fuel following a crash involving the tanker and a bus.
Representative image: Shutterstock
Sierra Leone’s health minister said as of November 8, the death toll had reached 99, although due to the seriousness of the injuries suffered, that number is expected to rise. Video and images taken at the scene show a large crowds gathering around the burning wreckage of the tanker with injured people being stretchered away from the scene.
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio said he was deeply disturbed by the tragic fires and the horrendous loss of life. “My profound sympathies with families who have lost loved ones and those who have been maimed as a result. My Government will do everything to support affected families,” he Tweeted.
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