A fuel tanker blast has killed a Gambian naval officer and injured four others seriously. The deceased has been identified as Richard Mendy.

The fire broke out on Friday evening when a fuel tanker, belonging to Jah Oil Company, was discharging the monthly fuel supply for the Gambia Navy, resulting in a severe blaze. The driver and an assistant from Jah Oil Company sustained injuries.

The Gambia Armed Forces has launched an investigation into the incident to determine the cause of the fire.

“The naval emergency response team, along with The Gambia Fire and Rescue Services, acted swiftly to contain the fire. The injured are currently receiving treatment at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH),” the army said.

By Adama Makasuba