CONAKRY, Guinea— A devastating explosion and subsequent inferno at Guinea's primary fuel depot in the capital city of Conakry have claimed the lives of at least 13 individuals, with 178 reported injuries, according to authorities on Monday. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, engulfing the Guinean Petroleum Company depot in flames and causing extensive damage in the central Kaloum administrative district, housing numerous government offices.

Guinea's presidency disclosed that among the injured, 89 have been treated and discharged, revising the initial casualty figures provided by the Civil Protection Service. Notably, foreigners were among the 13 fatalities. The government has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the explosion at the depot, which was in the process of relocation to a remote location as a precautionary measure against such disasters.

Concerns are mounting over potential disruptions in the country's fuel supply chain, heavily reliant on imported refined petroleum products. Officials are actively identifying critical fuel-related needs to prevent possible disruptions in the supply chain from the capital to other regions of the country.

A worker at the depot shared harrowing details, stating that the explosion occurred during a ship offloading, resulting in the loss of lives and destruction of offices and equipment. Security Minister Bachir Diallo confirmed on state television that the fire had been contained, and neighboring countries such as Senegal and Mali were sending medical and safety teams to assist.

The fire left a trail of destruction, reducing offices and buildings to ashes, prompting many residents to evacuate their homes as thick smoke blanketed the area. In response to the crisis, authorities temporarily closed schools and public spaces in the capital, restricting access to the affected district to essential services only. The presidency issued an advisory urging people to stay at home during these challenging times.

Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, the interim president following the 2021 coup, assured the public that the state is providing comprehensive care for the injured. Doumbouya called upon the people of Guinea to exhibit solidarity and offer prayers for the nation during this period of adversity.