Powerful Explosion Rocks Army Base, Seven Dead

A powerful explosion shook a military complex in Viacha, Bolivia, about 30 kilometres from La Paz, on Friday, 4 September. Local authorities confirmed that seven people were killed, whilst several others remain missing.

“Our priority remains to find our colleagues who are still missing and to provide answers to their families as soon as possible,” said Bolivian Army Commander Hector Alarcón at a press conference on Monday (7/9/2026), as quoted by Reuters. He said seven people were still being sought.

The explosion occurred at around 14.30 local time, or 18.30 GMT, in an area used to store pyrotechnic materials. Authorities are still investigating to determine the cause of the incident.

Bolivian Health Minister Marcela Flores said that a total of 84 patients have received treatment since the explosion occurred. Of that number, 31 people remain hospitalised.

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz said the incident is suspected to be an accident related to the handling of explosive materials stored at the military facility.

“Our Armed Forces are reviewing protocols and everything necessary to guarantee better safety,” Paz said.

Paz stressed that the safety evaluation is intended not only for military personnel, but also for communities living around the base.

“Not only for enlisted personnel and officers, but also for residents living near the military base,” he said.

The Bolivian government has also declared a national period of mourning and urged the public not to politicise the tragedy. Meanwhile, search operations for the missing victims continue at the military complex.