In brief
An explosion at a Viacha military barracks on September 5, 2026, has left at least two dead and 58 people injured when pyrotechnic material detonated. Health officials estimate 10-15 casualties, while police report damage to surrounding homes. The incident has sparked concerns over stored fireworks and prompted authorities to urge civilians to stay at least 150 meters away from the base, with an investigation underway.
At least two people have been killed after an explosion at a military barracks in Bolivia, but authorities fear the toll could be higher.
At least 58 people were injured when pyrotechnic material detonated at the barracks, where an artillery regiment is stationed, about 14:30 local time.
Health official Rita Nebraska told local television that between 10 and 15 people were believed to have died in the incident in Viacha, about 30 km from La Paz.
Police said dozens of homes had been damaged – largely windows shattered in the blast – and emergency workers are searching the rubble.
Nebraska warned there was a risk of further explosion and urged people to stay at least 150 metres away from the military base.
Police spokesman Roger Roca told AFP news agency that fireworks had been stored at the barracks, and the cause of the blast remained under investigation.
Viacha’s authorities have declared three days of mourning.
