Explosion at Bolivian Army Base Kills at Least 10, Injures 62

On Friday afternoon, a significant explosion occurred at a military barracks in Viacha, Bolivia, leading to a tragic toll of at least 10 fatalities and 62 injuries, as reported by local officials. The incident, which took place around 2:30 PM, was linked to the defence ministry's fireworks storage, although the precise cause is still being investigated. Rita Nebraska, the health director of Viacha, indicated that the death toll may range from 10 to 15 individuals, with 14 of the injured being transported to hospitals in La Paz, including a girl suffering from third-degree burns. Defence Minister Ernesto Justiniano revealed that 52 of the injured were civilians, while the others were military personnel. The explosion also damaged numerous nearby homes, primarily breaking windows. Footage shared online depicted thick black smoke rising from the barracks, located in the city center. This incident has sparked concerns regarding the safety of storing pyrotechnics in populated areas, prompting authorities to investigate the cause and assist the victims.