A devastating fire broke out late Tuesday at a massive military ammunition depot in N’Djamena, the capital of Chad, resulting in weapons firing into the sky, as reported by the government and witnesses. The blasts reverberated for miles around, with projectiles painting the night sky in red and black hues at regular intervals.
Resident Kadidja Dakou recounted how her house’s roof was blown off by one of the explosions, forcing her and her children to seek refuge on the street out of fear of collapse. President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno expressed condolences for the casualties and pledged to investigate the incident, though specific figures were not provided.
Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah cautioned the public to remain calm in the face of the tragedy, which occurred in close proximity to residential areas and a French military base. The French forces confirmed that the blaze triggered explosions of various ammunition types.