An explosion ripped through a military barracks in the town of Viacha, roughly 30km north of La Paz, at around 14:30 local time on Friday.
The blast, which officials say involved stored pyrotechnic material, killed at least two people and left between ten and fifteen others presumed dead, according to health official Rita Nebraska. The Defence Ministry confirmed that 58 individuals were injured in the incident, which hit an artillery regiment’s premises.
Defence Minister Ernesto Justiniano described the incident as a detonation of pyrotechnic material, while police spokesman Roger Roca told reporters that fireworks had been stored at the site and that the exact cause remained under investigation.
Nebraska warned that there was a risk of a secondary explosion and urged residents to keep a minimum distance of 150 metres from the base.
Emergency crews were dispatched to search the debris and provide medical assistance to the injured.
The blast also damaged dozens of nearby homes, shattering windows and causing further disruption. Local authorities have declared three days of mourning for the victims, and the community has been advised to stay clear of the barracks while safety checks continue.
Category: International
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