Explosion at Bolivia Barracks Claims Two, More Than 50 Injured


A blast at a military barracks in Viacha, about 30km from La Paz, on Friday killed at least two people and left more than 58 wounded, officials say.



Explosion at a military unit in Viacha, Bolivia
The explosion happened at a barracks in Viacha, about 30km from La Paz. Source: Reuters


Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano said that pyrotechnic material detonated during the deployment of an artillery regiment, striking local time 18:30.


Health official Rita Nebraska reported between 10 and 15 deaths and stressed that further explosions could occur, urging civilians to stay at least 150m away from the base.


Police spokesman Roger Roca noted that fireworks had been stored at the barracks, and the cause of the blast remains under investigation.


Local authorities in Viacha declared three days of mourning following the tragic incident.