A French tourist has been reported missing since Wednesday evening in an area classified as “red” by France’s foreign ministry.
The missing person was attending the International Festival of Saharan Cultures in the province of Ennedi-East.
The tourist disappeared in the Guelta de Bachikele area, a well-known site in Ennedi-East province, Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported. The region is designated as a “red zone” by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, indicating a high-security risk.
The man had traveled to Chad to attend the International Festival of Saharan Cultures (FISCA).
According to the provincial governor, Mahamat Togou Tchohimi, cited by AFP, he went missing while on an excursion with another French national, “without a guide,” in order to “explore the area.”
One of the two men was located during the initial search operations.
Search efforts are under way, Governor Togou Tchohimi said, adding that the area is “secured.”
A diplomatic source confirmed to AFP that the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, through its embassy in Chad and its Crisis and Support Centre in Paris, is closely monitoring the situation and remains in close contact with local authorities.
CA/ac/lb/as/APA