AMN

The death toll from a tanker truck explosion near the international airport in Niger’s capital, Niamey has risen to 60.

Security official Hamani Adamou Abdoul-Aziz told the local media that the toll is likely to rise further as the prognosis is poor for several people who sustained severe burns.

The overturned tanker exploded Sunday night as crowds gathered to collect spilt fuel. Nearby houses were damaged by fire. About 40 people are reported injured, most of them in a very serious condition.