The Government of Benin has confirmed that at least nine passengers survived and 44 others remain missing after a tragic accident involving an STM transport bus that plunged into the Ouémé River at Thio, in Glazoué commune, during the night of Sunday, August 17, 2025. One fatality has also been recorded.
According to a statement by the Minister of the Interior and Public Security, Dr. Alassane Seidou, the bus, registered CC 0085 MD, was traveling from Lomé, Togo, to Niamey, Niger, with 54 passengers on board when the driver lost control after violently hitting the bridge barrier, sending the vehicle into the river.
On the instructions of President Patrice Talon, the Government immediately activated the ORSEC emergency response plan, mobilizing rescue teams, divers, police, and civil protection officers to assist victims, recover bodies, and retrieve the submerged vehicle. Survivors are receiving treatment at the Savè district hospital, where medical personnel report their condition as stable.
Dr. Seidou, who also chairs the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation, personally visited the accident site alongside senior security and civil protection officials, as well as regional health and environment authorities.
“The Government extends its condolences to the family of the deceased, stands in solidarity with the other passengers and their families, and reassures the public that search operations are ongoing to locate the missing and clarify the circumstances of this tragic event,” the statement read.
The minister further appealed to transport companies and drivers, both national and international, to adhere strictly to road safety regulations in order to minimize the risk of such disasters.
Rescue efforts continue as hope remains for those still unaccounted for.
