A bus crash in northern Senegal early Wednesday morning has left at least 23 people dead and 52 injured.

The crash occurred around 3:00 am local time in the vicinity of Kaffrine, and authorities have not yet released the cause of the accident.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, and officials have expressed concerns that the death toll could rise further. Road accidents are common in Senegal, and are often attributed to inadequate driving skills, as well as the subpar condition of vehicles and roads.

The president of Senegal, Macky Sall, has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and has ordered an investigation into the crash.

“I express my sympathy following the terrible road accident this morning on RN2 in Ngeune Sarr. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the 23 deceased individuals and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. I once again call for increased caution on the roads,” Sall wrote on Twitter. (ILKHA)