Tragedy in Niger: 49 Die of Thirst in Sahara Desert

In a devastating incident in northern Niger, at least 49 people lost their lives due to thirst after their truck broke down in the Sahara Desert. The group, all citizens of Niger, was returning from a religious festival in Mali. The breakdown occurred more than 80 kilometers (49 miles) west of Assamaka, close to the borders of Mali and Algeria.

According to the Agadez region governorate, two men survived the ordeal. They managed to walk over 50 kilometers (31 miles) to find a water source before continuing to Assamaka to alert the authorities. This information was shared in an online post late Thursday.

Governor Gen. Ibra Boulama Issa of the Agadez region dispatched a team to investigate the scene. Reports indicated that the truck had been on the road for days, originating from Talhandek in Mali, approximately 300 kilometers (187 miles) from Niger.

The cause of the truck’s breakdown remains unclear. Additionally, it’s unknown how long the passengers endured the harsh conditions.

“On the spot, the findings were particularly disturbing. Dozens of lifeless bodies were found under the immobile truck and in its surroundings,” the Agadez governorate stated.

Images shared by the governorate depicted a grim scene with bodies, along with clothing and belongings, strewn across the desert.

The travelers faced dire circumstances, cut off from water and unable to repair the vehicle despite their efforts. They were trapped in a barren landscape marked by extreme temperatures and scarce resources, which made survival nearly impossible.

The victims were buried in mass graves at the site. This task was described by officials as “particularly delicate and emotionally exhausting” for those who survived.