7 killed after ammunition depot explosion in Burundi's commercial capital


BUJUMBURA, April 1 (Xinhua) -- At least seven people, including two inmates at Mpimba prison, were killed after projectiles exploded on Tuesday evening at an ammunition depot of a military camp in Bujumbura, Burundi's commercial capital.

Adelaide Hatangayo, administrator of the Mugere district, told Burundi National Radio and Television (RTNB) on Wednesday that two inmates were killed in Mpimba prison, neighboring the military camp in Musaga zone where the short circuit incident was reported.

Hatangayo added that 30 inmates from the same prison were injured. According to her, some unexploded shells were recovered from various places in the district, notably two projectiles in Ruyaga zone, three in Kinindo zone, and three in Kanyosha zone.

Meanwhile, Bujumbura Province Governor Aloys Ndayikengurukiye told RTNB that people should remain calm and carry out their daily activities normally.

"Some people thought it was an attack, but after discussing with military officials, we realized that it was a fire accident. Security and defence officials are closely following up on the issue," said Ndayikengurukiye.

On Tuesday, residents told Xinhua that several blasts were heard in Bujumbura.

Burundi's National Defense Force later confirmed that the blasts originated from an ammunition depot at the Bujumbura Military Base, where a fire had broken out.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In World

Italy recovers 19 bodies from migrant boat, survivors taken to Lampedusa
Iranian president says in letter that Iran harbors no enmity towards ordinary Americans
Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University awarded highest civic honor by Liverpool
Feature: Chinese film carries Wuxia's enduring appeal to global screens
China's zero-tariff policy boosts industrial growth in Ghana, Africa: experts
Zelenskiy, Rutte hold talks with US negotiators, source says
Textile factory fire in Cairo kills 8, injures 17
News Analysis: Surging inflation puts mounting pressure on European growth outlook
Tanzania raises fuel price caps amid global supply disruptions
Feature: Benin's premium "Sugarloaf" pineapples make sweet voyage to China

Others Also Read