Deadly Explosions at Ammunition Depot in Bujumbura
At least four people have died following a series of powerful explosions at an ammunition depot in Bujumbura, the largest city in Burundi, according to local residents who spoke to the BBC.
The blasts occurred late on Tuesday at the facility situated in the Musaga suburb. An army spokesperson attributed the incident to an electrical fault.
Shrapnel and debris were propelled over distances exceeding 5 kilometers (three miles), causing destruction to several houses in nearby districts due to the force of the explosions.
The authorities have not released official casualty figures; however, family members and eyewitnesses reported to the BBC that four separate deaths occurred within the city. Meanwhile, the AFP news agency cited security sources indicating that dozens of people may have died.
Impact on Nearby Prison and Residential Areas
A woman told BBC Gahuza that a relative detained at Mpimba Central Prison died after a bomb struck the facility. The prison, located near the ammunition depot, reportedly sustained injuries among numerous inmates.
In the north-eastern neighborhood of Gisandema, witnesses informed BBC Gahuza that a bomb destroyed a house, resulting in the death of a domestic worker.
The authorities have stated they are unable to comment on the casualty numbers at this time as they continue to assess the extent of the damage.
Citywide Panic and Official Response
The explosions sent large plumes of smoke rising above Bujumbura, causing panic among the city's population of over one million residents.
President Evariste Ndayishimiye expressed his condolences to all Burundians via a message on X, stating:
"The authorities are here to help."
Additional Information
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