A bus carrying 54 passengers plunged into Benin’s Oueme River early Sunday after the driver lost control and struck a bridge guardrail, authorities confirmed. The heartbreaking incident left one person dead and 44 others missing, with only nine survivors rescued so far. 🚑
The vehicle was traveling from Togo’s capital, Lomé, to Niamey, Niger’s capital, when the crash occurred. Benin’s Minister of the Interior, Alassane Seidou, described the scene as "chaotic," with emergency teams working around the clock to locate the missing. 🌊
Local officials activated a nationwide emergency response, deploying divers, medical teams, and helicopters. Survivors are hospitalized in stable condition, while families anxiously await updates. The government has vowed to investigate the cause and prevent future tragedies. 🛠️
This accident highlights road safety challenges in West Africa, a region where long-distance travel remains vital for cross-border trade and connectivity. Our hearts go out to all affected. 💔
✈️ Travelers tip: Always check transport safety ratings and weather conditions before embarking on road trips in unfamiliar regions.
