Explosion at Military Ammunition Depot in Chad: Casualties Reported
Late Tuesday, a fire broke out at a major military ammunition depot in N’Djamena, the capital of Chad, resulting in explosions. Both the government and eyewitnesses reported that the blasts could be heard from miles away.
City Under a Red and Black Sky
AFP correspondents reported that the explosions from the depot in the Goudji area caused shells to be launched into the air at regular intervals, turning the sky red and black.
Damage to Homes from the Explosion
Kadidja Dakou, a resident of the Amsinene area near Goudji, said, “One of the explosions blew off the roof of our house.” The 36-year-old, along with her three children, took refuge in the street with neighbors.
Statement from President Deby
President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno stated that there were fatalities and injuries from the fire but did not provide specific numbers. Deby extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and announced that an investigation into the fire would be initiated.
Call for Calm
Government spokesman and Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah described the scene as having “major explosions” and called for public calm. The ammunition depot is located near an international airport and a base housing French soldiers.
Statement from French Forces Official
An official from the French forces said the fire caused the explosion of “ammunition of all calibers.”
