In brief
A sudden explosion tore through a Bolivian military barracks in Viacha, killing two and injuring 81 men from an artillery regiment. Authorities suspect pyrotechnic materials detonated, possibly fireworks stored at the base. Seven missing, dozens of homes damaged, and officials warn of a further blast. President Paz pledged a thorough investigation, while officials declared three days of mourning.
Explosion at a military barracks in Viacha, Bolivia, killed two soldiers and injured 81 others, authorities report.
The blast, which occurred around 14:30 local time (18:30 GMT) on Friday, happened at a base housing an artillery regiment. Defence Minister Ernesto Justiniano said the explosion was caused by “pyrotechnic material.” The incident left seven people missing and caused widespread damage to nearby homes.
Health official Rita Nebraska told local television that between 10 and 15 people had died in the incident, though the exact toll remains uncertain. She warned of a potential secondary explosion and urged residents to keep at least 150 metres from the base.
President Rodrigo Paz expressed his deepest solidarity with the families affected and pledged a transparent, technical investigation into the cause of the blast.
Police spokesman Roger Roca said fireworks were stored at the barracks, and that the cause was still under investigation. Local authorities declared three days of mourning following the tragedy.