Fire in Liberia religious school kills dozens of children

Image

Dozens of children have been killed after a fire broke out at their religious school in Paynesville, on the outskirts of the Liberian capital, Monrovia. 

"The kids were learning the Quran when the fire broke out," police spokesman Moses Carter was quoted as saying by Reuters news agency on Wednesday.

"The cause is not known yet," he said, giving a death toll of 30.

AFP news agency quoted the president's office as saying that the fire killed at least 26 children and two teachers.

"This is a tough time for the families of the victims and all of Liberia," President George Weah said in a post on Twitter. "Deepest condolences go out to the bereaved."

Developing story, More soon...

Related Articles

Ethiopia builds secret camp to train Sudan RSF fighters, sources say

Both sides draw strength from international backers, fueling the war and increasing the risk that the fighting spills over into neighbouring countries.

  • Africa

    10-02-2026

  • 09:29AM

Ethiopia Demands Immediate Withdrawal of Eritrean Troops Amid Rising Border Tensions

Tensions have been fueled by Ethiopia’s recent push for sovereign access to the Red Sea, which faces challenges.

  • Africa

    08-02-2026

  • 07:01PM