At least 13 civilians died when explosions ripped through a military ammunition depot in Burundi's capital Bujumbura on Tuesday evening, according to army officials, marking one of the deadliest accidents in the East African nation's recent history.
The blasts began around 6:20 PM local time at the facility in Musaga suburb, less than 4 kilometers from the city center. An electrical fault triggered the initial fire at the underground storage facility, which houses heavy weapons and munitions for the entire Burundian army, military spokesperson General Gaspard Baratuza said.
Explosions continued for hours, sending shrapnel and debris more than 5 kilometers across the city of over one million residents. The force destroyed several houses in nearby neighborhoods and damaged Mpimba Central Prison, where inmates were reportedly injured.
Glass fell on us and I even got wounded under my foot
Bujumbura resident — BBC
The incident sparked immediate panic among residents traumatized by decades of civil war and ethnic massacres. Many fled their homes, shops shuttered, and traffic accidents occurred as drivers abandoned vehicles in fear of a coup attempt or renewed conflict.
BBC provides detailed witness accounts and casualty reports from multiple neighborhoods. The coverage emphasizes civilian impact and residents' calls for official reassurance about safety.
France 24 focuses on official military statements confirming the death toll and cause. The outlet emphasizes government efforts to maintain control and calm public fears.