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NIAMEY, May 6 (Xinhua) - At least 55 people were killed and 37 others severely burned in the explosion of a gas tanker truck on the main road at the eastern entrance to the Nigerien capital, Niamey, early Monday, authorities said.
The tragedy occurred when the tanker, which had overturned after an accident, caught fire as dozens of people were trying to siphon the leaked fuel, according to Minister of State for the Interior and Public Security Bazoum Mohamed.
Niger's President Mahamadou Issoufou, Prime Minister Brigi Rafini, Health Minister Idi Illiassou Mainassara, and Mohamed, visited the wounded who are being treated in hospitals in the capital.
Several other cars and motorcycles were also burned in the explosion.
