At least 42 personnel of the Niger Republic armed forces have reportedly died in a fatal road accident involving two buses near Doukou Doukou, about 55 kilometres from Madaoua.
The accident reportedly occurred on Friday, August 7, according to security sources cited by counter-terrorism publication.
The victims were said to be assistant non-commissioned officers who had completed their military training on Thursday and were travelling when the two buses were involved in the crash.
Eighteen other personnel reportedly sustained critical injuries and are said to be in comas while receiving medical attention.
The circumstances surrounding the accident were not immediately clear at the time of filing this report.
However, the incident has reportedly raised concerns over the transportation arrangements and safety standards for military personnel.
According to the report obtained by The News Chronicle, there were claims that the soldiers were being transported in buses operated by a private company, despite allegations that the Nigerien Army has its own troop transport vehicles.
The allegations of corruption surrounding the use of private transportation could not be independently verified.
The tragedy is expected to prompt renewed scrutiny of military logistics, troop transportation and safety measures, particularly concerning newly trained personnel.
