The body of a French tourist who went missing in north-eastern Chad has been recovered, with preliminary findings suggesting he died after falling from a cliff, local authorities confirmed on Friday.
The Chadian army, which had been leading search efforts, located the body near Amdjarass after several days of operations in the remote desert region.
The mayor of Amdjarass said military officials informed him earlier on Friday that the missing tourist had been found dead. Local medical personnel subsequently confirmed the death.
An official at Chad’s Tourism Ministry indicated that early assessments point to an accidental fall. According to the official, the man had reportedly appeared physically weak prior to his disappearance, raising the possibility that he lost his footing in the rugged terrain.
Further details are expected once the body is transported to the capital, N’Djamena, for additional examination and formal procedures.
France’s foreign ministry had earlier confirmed that it was in contact with Chadian authorities after the disappearance of one of its nationals during the International Festival of Saharan Cultures near Amdjarass. A search operation had been launched shortly after the tourist was reported missing.
Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the deceased pending official notification of next of kin.
The incident has cast a shadow over the annual cultural festival, which attracts visitors to Chad’s desert north-east, an area known for its dramatic landscapes but also challenging environmental conditions.
