Explosion in Viacha, Bolivia: Multiple Injuries and Evacuations

A devastating explosion occurred at the Regimiento de Artillería y Mantenimiento RAM-2 Bolívar in Viacha, Bolivia, on September 4, 2026. The blast, which was described as a "detonación accidental de material pirotécnico," caused significant damage to infrastructure and nearby buildings, affecting four city blocks. Two smaller explosions were followed by a larger blast, accompanied by flames and thick smoke. According to the Ministry of Health and Sports, 78 people were injured, with 28 women and 50 men transported to nine healthcare centers. Twenty-five families were evacuated and relocated to a provisional shelter managed by the Viceministerio de Defensa Civil. The search and rescue efforts are ongoing, led by the Viceministerio de Defensa Civil, with the assistance of the Viacha Fire Department. The situation remains fluid, and the information is preliminary. The explosion has resulted in humanitari impacts, with affected families relocated to a temporary shelter.