Death toll from Bolivian military base explosions rises to nine, search for missing continues

The death toll from explosions at a military base in Bolivia has risen to nine, as rescue teams continue searching for people still missing three days after the blasts. The Ministry of Defence reported that a ninth body was found in the rubble on Monday afternoon and transferred to the morgue for identification. Bolivian Army Commander Hector Alarcon stated that seven people remain unaccounted for after the explosions at a military barracks in Viacha, located about 30 km (20 miles) southwest of La Paz. Health Minister Marcela Flores indicated that 84 people have been treated since the explosions, with 31 still hospitalized. The blasts occurred on Friday afternoon at approximately 2:30 PM local time (18:30 GMT) in an area of the military facility designated for storing pyrotechnic materials. Authorities had previously indicated that the site held confiscated fireworks, grenades, and TNT-based explosives. The cause of the explosions is under investigation, but President Rodrigo Paz suggested they appeared to be an accident linked to the improper handling of explosives stored at the base. Prosecutors in Viacha have initiated an investigation into possible manslaughter and other crimes, while investigators are examining the storage methods of the explosives. President Paz stated, "Our Armed Forces are reviewing their protocols, and everything needed to provide greater safety, not only for enlisted personnel and officers, but also for nearby residents living close to military bases." He declared a period of national mourning and urged Bolivians not to politicize the tragedy. The explosions caused debris to scatter across the surrounding area, damaging roofs and uprooting trees, affecting numerous homes. Footage shared on social media depicted shattered windows and thick black smoke rising from the military facility. Nearby residents were evacuated to temporary shelters following the blasts. Defence Minister Ernesto Justiniano noted that it was not yet safe for some residents to return due to damage from the shockwave. Many of those initially reported missing were young conscripts aged 18 and 19 completing Bolivia’s mandatory military service, with at least two of the confirmed dead also being first-year conscripts. Former President Evo Morales criticized President Paz’s government regarding its response, alleging mishandling of the disaster and calling for the matter to be taken to the International Criminal Court.