Recent news was marked by a tragic event that occurred on Saturday September 23 in Sèmè-Kraké, on the border between Benin and Nigeria. A fire broke out in a fuel warehouse, causing the death of at least 33 people according to an initial report.
The origin of the fire remains unknown for the moment, but the consequences were terrible. The hydrocarbon warehouse, with an area of 1,000 square meters, was located among shops in the commune of Sèmè-Kraké. The flames ravaged the premises, consuming motorcycles, vehicles and even the roof and gate of the warehouse.
Witnesses at the scene claim to have heard an explosion shortly before 10 a.m., just before the fire broke out. The images that circulated after the tragedy are appalling, showing charred bodies. The bones are the only elements allowing us to determine the identity of the victims. It is a real tragedy for the community, which is in mourning following this tragedy.
What is particularly striking about this story is that the fuel warehouse was a well-known smuggling facility. Located in the middle of several shops, it was used to store and distribute fuel illegally. A pineapple market was held nearby every day, but since the fire, access has been prohibited and the place is under police surveillance.
The Beninese authorities reacted quickly by sending judicial police officers and scientific police to the scene. Their intervention is necessary to carry out the investigation and collect the remains of the bodies.
This incident demonstrates the dangerousness of these smuggling activities which endanger the safety of people and communities. The consequences of such a fire are dramatic, with lives lost and families bereaved. It is essential to strengthen measures to prevent and combat fuel smuggling to avoid such tragedies in the future.
In conclusion, the fire that occurred in Sèmè-Kraké is a tragedy which reminds us of the risks linked to fuel smuggling. The victims deserve our support and it is imperative that steps are taken to prevent such events in the future. Hopefully this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and legality in the hydrocarbon trade.