Powerful explosion at military base in Bolivia leaves at least two dead and dozens injured

A powerful explosion struck a military base in Bolivia on Friday, causing fatalities, dozens of injuries and considerable material damage. Authorities have warned that the death toll could rise.

The incident was recorded at around 2:30 p.m. local time at an artillery regiment located in Viacha, about 30 kilometers from La Paz.

Bolivian Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano announced that 81 people had been injured, while 14 others remained missing. Local health authorities said the toll could be much higher, estimating preliminarily that the number of dead could reach between 10 and 15.

The explosion also damaged dozens of homes near the barracks, according to police. Meanwhile, emergency teams continue working among the rubble to determine whether anyone is trapped.

Residents have been asked to remain at least 150 meters from the base, after health officials warned that there is still a risk of another explosion.

On Saturday, the base commander, Colonel Antonio Amaru, said that among the 14 missing people were a sergeant and 13 conscripted soldiers, aged 18 and 19.

Police confirmed that fireworks and pyrotechnic materials were stored on the barracks’ premises. The cause of the explosion, however, has not yet been determined and is under investigation.

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz expressed his support for the families of the victims and the injured. He promised that the incident would be fully, technically and transparently investigated.

Following the incident, the authorities in Viacha declared three days of mourning. Search and rescue operations are continuing in the affected area.