French Tourist Found Dead in Chad After Accidental Fall

The body of Paul Ferreri, a 70-year-old French citizen, was discovered in the Ennedi region of northeastern Chad following a two-day search. Ferreri had been missing since he left a tourist camp near the town of Bachikele on February 8, 2026, while attending the 6th International Festival of Saharan Cultures. Local authorities confirmed the discovery on February 10, stating that initial indications suggest he may have died from an accidental fall.

UsNews and World Report

Ferreri, who was part of a group visiting Chad for the festival, reportedly left the camp with another unidentified tourist to explore the Guelta de Bachikele oasis without a guide. The two men departed early on Wednesday morning, but the unidentified tourist became disoriented and returned to the camp. After a brief search, he was located and informed authorities of Ferreri's absence.

UsNews and World Report

Chad's Tourism Minister, Abakar Rozi Teguil, indicated that Ferreri's body was found in the Bachekele mountains and noted that local medical staff confirmed the death. He mentioned that further details would be released once the body was transported to the capital, N'Djamena. The French Foreign Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining communication with Chadian authorities.

South China Morning Post

The incident has raised concerns regarding the safety protocols for tourists in remote areas of Chad. Critics have pointed out that Ferreri and his companion ventured into the desert without proper guidance or authorization, highlighting potential gaps in the supervision arrangements for tourists at the festival.

South China Morning Post

While the Chadian authorities have suggested that Ferreri likely died from a fall, specific details surrounding the circumstances of his death remain unclear. There has been no official confirmation of the exact cause of death, and further investigations are expected to clarify the situation.

The Straits Times

As investigations continue, authorities in Chad are expected to release more information regarding the incident. The French Foreign Ministry will likely remain involved, ensuring that the circumstances surrounding Ferreri's death are thoroughly examined and communicated to his family.

UsNews and World Report

• “We found the body in the Bachekele mountains and are waiting for the prosecutor to record the findings before any evacuation to N’Djamena,” — Abakar Rozi Teguil, Chad’s Tourism Minister

South China Morning Post