Voice Air Media

Explosion at an illegal fuel depot in Cotonou, the Republic of Benin, has killed 34 people.

A government official confirmed the incident to newsmen.

The government official said no fewer than 34 people were killed when a contraband fuel dump burst into flames in southern Benin near the border with Nigeria.

“A serious fire occurred in the town of Seme Podji,” Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou told reporters.

“Unfortunately we have 34 deaths including two babies. Their bodies are charred because the cause of the fire is smuggled fuel.”