Seven people died and 31 remain hospitalized after an explosion at a military barracks in Viacha, Bolivia. Authorities are investigating the cause, which appears to be accidental due to improper handling of explosives.
The incident highlights safety concerns at military facilities and the potential risks associated with storing explosives, impacting national security and public safety in Bolivia.
Seven people have died and 31 remain hospitalized after an explosion at a military barracks in the Bolivian municipality of Viacha. The blast occurred on Friday afternoon in an area used for storing pyrotechnic material. Army Commander Hector Alarcón confirmed the fatalities and stated that seven individuals are still missing, with the priority being their recovery and providing answers to their families. Health Minister Marcela Flores reported that 84 patients were treated following the incident. President Rodrigo Paz indicated that the cause of the blast is under investigation but appears to have been an accident resulting from the improper handling of explosives. He also announced a period of national mourning and urged against politicizing the tragedy, emphasizing that military protocols are being reviewed for enhanced safety.