On December 21, 2024, a tragic incident occurred in the commune of Yopougonprecisely at SIDECI, opposite the Lem pharmacy. Indeed, around 5 p.m., a violent detonation shook a low five-room villa, causing a fire which caused significant material damage and several serious injuries. According to testimonies from family members, this fire was started by the explosion of a B6 butane gas bottle in the kitchen, the flames of which quickly spread throughout the house.
The explosion made seven victimsincluding six members of the same family succumbed to their injuries. These victimswith second-degree burns, were rushed to the burn center at Cocody University Hospital. Unfortunately, six of them did not survive. Only one survivor, seriously injured, was able to be saved. The injured were in serious danger at the time of the incident.
Faced with this tragedy, the State of Côte d’Ivoire expressed its solidarity with the bereaved family. On December 31, 2024, a delegation led by the Director of Cabinet of the Ministry of National Cohesion, Solidarity and the Fight against Poverty paid tribute to the victims.
During the ceremony, Joël Yves Kouadio, Chief of Staff, conveyed the government’s compassion and assured that the situation had been brought to the attention of the highest summit of the State. He specified that the President of the Republic, deeply affected by this incident, shared the pain of the bereaved family.
“This tragedy has been brought to the attention of the highest level of the State, who have instructed us to stand with you during this difficult time. We come to tell you that the President of the Republic is very touched and moved by the situation you are going through. This pain is shared by the entire Government,” declared Mr. Koaudio.
In a show of solidarity, the ministry also granted financial assistance to the family of victims. On behalf of the Government, an envelope of more than three million FCFA was given to the bereaved family to alleviate the costs linked to the organization of the funerals of the deceased. In addition, the Ministry took charge of the care of the injured survivor, ensuring his medical care.
On behalf of the Minister of National Cohesion, Solidarity and the Fight against Poverty, Belmonde Dogo, members of the delegation reaffirmed their support for the family and announced that measures would be taken to support the family during the funeral and after that drama.
Kouebi Mathieu, spokesperson for the family of victimsexpressed his gratitude for the assistance received.
“It was a dramatic weekend for our family. Since the incident, we have been deeply touched by the visits of solidarity and compassion. We sincerely thank you for your presence and for the support of the Government in these moments of great pain,” he declared.
Ce drama has Yopougon plunged the community into sadness, but it also strengthened the bonds of solidarity, as evidenced by the rapid and moving action of the Government. In these moments of pain, the family of victims can count on the unwavering support of the State, which stands by their side.
Wassimagnon
Canada
