An explosion at a military barracks in Viacha, Bolivia, has killed at least two people and injured 81 others, with fears the death toll may rise.
An explosion involving pyrotechnic material at a military barracks in Viacha, Bolivia, has resulted in at least two fatalities and 81 injuries, according to Bolivian Defence Minister Ernesto Justiniano. The blast occurred around 14:30 local time on Friday at the barracks, which houses an artillery regiment. Fourteen individuals remain unaccounted for, and health officials estimate between ten and fifteen deaths. Dozens of nearby homes sustained damage, and emergency services are conducting searches.
Colonel Antonio Amaru, the base commander, stated on Saturday that a sergeant and thirteen conscripted soldiers, aged between eighteen and nineteen, are among the missing. President Rodrigo Paz has conveyed his condolences and promised a thorough, technical, and transparent investigation into the incident. Police spokesman Roger Roca indicated that fireworks were stored at the barracks, and the precise cause of the detonation is still under investigation.
Viacha authorities have declared three days of mourning following the incident. Rita Nebraska, a health official, advised the public to maintain a distance of at least 150 meters from the military base due to the risk of further explosions. The barracks are located approximately 30 kilometers from La Paz.
Why it mattersTwo people are confirmed dead and 81 injured following an explosion at a military barracks in Bolivia.
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