Cameroon: At least four dead in factory explosion in Douala

An explosion followed by a fire struck the Metafrique Steel plant in the Bassa industrial zone of Douala on Monday morning, November 2, 2026. At least four people died and sixteen others were seriously injured, according to available reports.

The fire broke out around 7 a.m. at the metal processing company. It quickly spread throughout the facility. Emergency responders discovered four bodies at the scene.

Workers hospitalized in serious condition

The injured workers were taken to Douala General Hospital. Most reportedly suffered burns over large parts of their bodies, and their condition is described as critical.

This assessment remains provisional. The available information does not allow for the identification of all victims or for a detailed description of the condition of each injured person.

The governor is questioning compliance with the guidelines.

The governor of the Littoral region, Samuel Dieudonné Ivaha Diboua, visited the site and then the injured. He denounced the company's failure to comply with safety measures imposed after a previous fire in May.

These are the governor's criticisms. They do not replace the conclusions of the announced investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the explosion and any potential responsibilities.

A closure has been mentioned, but not yet confirmed.

The governor also mentioned the possibility of suspending operations at the plant. At this stage, the information available does not allow for an announcement of a permanent closure of the site.

The technical cause of the disaster remains to be determined. Following this latest industrial tragedy in Douala, the investigation will need to clarify the working conditions and the preventative measures actually implemented at the facility.