Death toll rises 193 in S Sudan

The death toll rose to 193 in South Sudan’s fuel tanker explosion Saturday as the government declared three days of mourning.
More patients have succumbed to their injuries, said Patrick Raphael Zamoi, the governor of Western Equatoria state where the explosion happened Wednesday.
“That is a very unfortunate situation,” Information Minister Michael Makuei told reporters, adding President Salva Kiir had declared three days of national mourning.
“All the flags are expected to be at half mast with effect from today. The president and the government extend heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims,” he added.
The incident occurred on Wednesday on a road some 250 kms west of the capital Juba, close to the small town of Maridi, with the victims including locals who tried to scoop up the fuel spill.
Hundreds of people had gathered to scoop gasoline from a leaking truck which had veered into a ditch outside Maridi town when the tank exploded under unclear circumstances.
Zamoi told The Associated Press the death toll is likely higher because the official count only includes those who died on the spot or in hospital. Others may still be unaccounted for or may have died at home, he said, according Arab News.

--Samir--