A fire at an illegal fuel depot in Cotonou, Benin, has resulted in the death of 34 people.

The government confirmed the incident to the media on Saturday, September 23.

It was reported that the fire broke out at the depot which had been used to store contraband fuel, causing the fatalities and injuries.

Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and urged the public to report illegal activities to the authorities.

The incident is a reminder of the dangers posed by the illegal fuel trade in West Africa.