The Cameroonian government, through the National Commission for Hajj, has made public the death toll of the stampede which occurred in Mina, Saudi Arabia on Thursday, September 24, 2015.

Below is the full release read on-air by national radio, CRTV, at 17 hours (5:00 pm).

“The Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization and Chairman of the National Committee of Hajj has informed that Cameroonian pilgrims were among the victims affected by massive stampede which took place on Thursday, September 24, 2015, in Mina near Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

According to the newest information, 21 pilgrims of Cameroonian nationality were killed during this scuffle at the end of which there are also several tens of wounded among our fellow citizens.

At the time this release was made public, 77 Cameroon were rescued and immediately sent to the official delegation of Cameroon and our diplomatic mission in Saudi Arabia, after a thorough search.

For those pilgrims who have not yet been found, the search continues actively. Informed of this drama, the president of the Republic, his Excellency Paul Biya, ordered that appropriate measures are urgently taken to provide all the necessary assistance to suffering pilgrims to support them in various forms, as required of each situation.

The Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization, Chairman of the National Hajj Committee, ensured the national community that the government is sparing no effort to provide for those of our compatriots affected by this serious accident support and comfort they need in such circumstances.

On behalf of the government, the Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization and Chairman of the national Hajj Committee expressed the compassion of the entire nation.

The president of the Republic, H.E Paul Biya expressed his sincere condolence to the bereaved families and a message of comfort, support, and solidarity to the injured as well as to their parents and friends. Other useful information will be brought to the attention of the public as soon as they are made available, during a press briefing by the Minister of Communication.”