Weapons depot explosion in Cuba, 13 soldiers missing.

The Cuban Revolutionary Armed Forces announced on January 7 that explosions occurred at an arms and ammunition depot near the community of Melones in Holguin province (eastern Cuba) on January 7. The explosions left four officers, including two majors, and nine soldiers missing, Reuters reported, citing the announcement.

Images circulating online allegedly show the explosion in Holguin province, Cuba, on January 7th.

PHOTO: SCREENSHOT FROM CIBERCUBA

Videos and images on social media showed a tall column of smoke rising near Melones. Soldiers and local police blocked roads leading to the scene while rescue teams and firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze.

Authorities announced that 1,245 people had been evacuated to safety following the explosion and reassured the public that the incident posed no threat to the community, according to the Telesur television network. Relatives of those missing have been notified. The identities of the missing were posted on the social media account of the Cuban Ministry of Revolutionary Armed Forces.

Map of the area where the January 7 explosion occurred in eastern Cuba.

PHOTO: SCREENSHOT FROM CNN

The cause of the incident is under investigation. Some unconfirmed reports suggest the explosion occurred during the sorting of old ammunition at the weapons depot. The Cuban Revolutionary Armed Forces Ministry also suggested the explosions may have originated from a fire at the scene, and authorities are continuing to determine the cause and assess the damage. Officials stated they are maintaining contact and assured the public that they will be promptly informed of developments.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/no-kho-vu-khi-tai-cuba-13-quan-nhan-mat-tich-185250108131348334.htm