Ten dead in blast at Russian munitions plant in Urals – reports

A catastrophic explosion rocked the Plastmass military plant in Kopeisk, near Chelyabinsk in Russia’s Urals region, resulting in at least 10 fatalities and 18 injuries, according to reports. The facility, which manufactures ammunition and weapons for the military, was engulfed in flames following the blast, with witnesses recounting scenes of explosions and a massive fireball. CCTV footage captured the harrowing moment of the incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community. Regional Governor Alexei Teksler confirmed the death toll but did not identify the specific factory involved. He emphasized that there is no evidence suggesting the explosion was caused by a drone attack. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the blast, but a criminal investigation has been launched. A day of mourning has been declared in the region, and Teksler confirmed that the fire at the Kopeisk plant has been extinguished. The incident underscores the ongoing risks associated with military production facilities and raises questions about safety protocols in such high-risk environments.