Strong explosion hits central Albania due to dismantling of ammunition

The explosion of an amount of ammunitions on Friday in the Shkumbin riverbed in Xibraka, Elbasan in central Albania has damaged dozens of houses and businesses.

The explosion occurred when two military trucks with experts of Mjekes factory assisted the scene, as reported by Albanian Ora News.

The deactivation of some shells of the World War II by military forces caused this strong explosion in Xibraka. Residents are seeking compensation from the state.

"I was here and the blast wave was so strong that I fell on the ground. Glasses have been broken and houses have been cracked. These damages must be compensated," said a resident.

According to the residents, this explosion was not the first one, but fortunately no one was hurt.

Meantime, the prefecture of Elbasan has set up a working group to verify damages, while the prosecution has started investigations on the explosive material and implementation of safety measures.

Elbasan police said that they received calls reporting a strong explosion in Xibraka while adding that it occurred in a polygon and no one was harmed.

"We have been notified about a strong explosion in Xibraka, which occurred in a polygon that serves for the dismantling of ammunition. Residents reported damages in houses and bars. We have sent the investigation group," said the police for Albanian News 24.