site.btaDose for One Shell Explodes in Kostenets-Based Ammo and Pyrotechnics Maker, No One Injured

A dose for one shell exploded in a shell-filling machine in a subsidiary of TEREM Holding based in Kostenets (Western Bulgaria) on Wednesday afternoon. No one was injured, the Regional Directorate of the Interior told BTA. The subsidiary manufactures ammunition and pyrotechnics and repairs ammunition and weapons.

A safety wall behind the machine and the roof of the factory were damaged. No fire occurred.

Fire crews doused the site with water to prevent another blast. All workers were removed from the scene.

Kalin Dimitrov, the factory's Executive Director, told reporters in Parliament about a production accident, saying there is no risk to the population. All the safety precautions have been taken. Military police officers are working on the site.

Asked if the accident was linked to an explosion, Dimitrov said more details were forthcoming.

TEREM-Holding is a state-owned company run by the Defence Ministry which specializes in repairs, modernization, and logistical support of military equipment.