NDJAMENA, Chad (SCANS) — A French tourist who vanished earlier this week in northeastern Chad’s rugged Sahara Desert has been found dead, authorities said Friday, ending a search that drew national attention and underscored the dangers of independent travel in remote parts of the Sahel.
Chadian officials identified the man as Paul Ferreri, 70, from Dijon, France. His body was located Thursday in the rocky terrain near the Guelta de Bachikele, an oasis in the Ennedi-Est province. The site lies within a region the French government labels a “red zone” because of security risks, including ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan.
Ferreri had been attending the International Festival of Saharan Cultures in the town of Amdjarass, a cultural celebration that brought performers and visitors from across the Sahara. Local authorities said he and another French tourist left a group on Wednesday morning to explore the oasis area “without a guide” and outside established supervision arrangements. The companion was located alive after becoming disoriented, but Ferreri did not return.
Chadian officials, including the tourism and culture ministry, launched a search using jeeps, motorcycles, camel patrols and drones, with military support. The minister for culture and tourism, Abakar Rozi Teguil, told AFP that Ferreri’s body was found at the foot of a mountain with an empty water bottle nearby and that preliminary indications point to a fatal fall, though formal investigations are ongoing.
The French Foreign Ministry said it was closely monitoring developments and remained in contact with Chadian authorities as procedures continue, including forensic examination and repatriation arrangements.
Chad’s Ennedi region, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its dramatic sandstone formations and ancient rock art, also sits near volatile border areas. The tragedy has prompted warnings about the hazards of unsupervised excursions in such terrain, particularly during high-temperature conditions and in zones with limited infrastructure.
Authorities in both countries have expressed condolences to Ferreri’s family as they complete legal and administrative steps related to the case.
