The explosion after the collision with a truck killed dozens of people who had flocked to collect fuel leaking from the ruptured vehicle, said Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, the Mayor of Freetown.

“The video and photo footage making rounds on social media are harrowing. There are unconfirmed rumors that more than 100 people have lost their lives. The extent of damage to property is unknown,” she added.

She also extended her sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims of the explosion.

Authorities have ended the rescue effort at the scene after they transferred injured people to hospitals and collected bodies, local sources reported.