A tragic event unfolded in the Central African Republic (CAR) when an explosion at an electricity transformer led to a deadly crush that claimed the lives of 29 students during their baccalaureate exams. The incident occurred on Wednesday, marking the second day of finals at the Lycée Barthélémy Boganda in the capital, Bangui, where nearly 6,000 students were gathered to take their exams.
The hospital director, Abel Assaye, confirmed the fatalities to the BBC, explaining that the loud noise and smoke from the blast instigated panic among the students. Amidst the ensuing chaos, students from five different schools rushed to escape, resulting in the tragic crush. Additionally, over 280 students were reported wounded in the incident, prompting President Faustin-Archange Touadéra to declare a national mourning period and ensure that injured students receive free medical treatment.
The CAR has been grappling with ongoing political instability and security issues, as government forces and Russian mercenaries combat armed groups that threaten to topple Touadéra's administration. This devastating event underscores the vulnerability of communities amid such turbulent conditions, as students lost their lives seeking education and opportunity.
