A fireworks factory on fire, both suffering injuries
Updated at 6.50pm
A fireworks factory on the outskirts of Mosta caught fire on Saturday afternoon, leaving two men injured and sending shock waves around the island.
Eleven people were on the scene at the time of the explosion but somehow managed to escape the worst of the fierce hell.
Police spokesman Brandon Pisani said two men had been admitted to hospital with minor injuries, one with burns on his arm, while the other was being treated after falling from a height. The 29-year-old victim from Mosta was seriously injured, police said later. The condition of the other victim, also a 25-year-old man from Mosta, is still unknown.
Ambulances and fire engines were seen rushing to the site hosting the August 15 fireworks factory when the blast occurred at around 3.15pm.
The bomb disposal team was in the area shortly afterwards amid fears of more unexploded ordnance near the fire.
People who rushed to the scene were kept away from the site of the explosion.
At 4pm another loud explosion was heard, with authorities warning people to stay away as there could be other flammable devices.
The powerful explosion was heard from various parts around Malta, up to Valletta.
The same fireworks factory had left a victim in 2010 after an explosion. Enthusiasts said that the factory in question is equipped with various security features.
A magisterial inquiry has been opened to determine the cause of the explosion.
Multiple fires were reported across Malta and Gozo on Saturday as the country enters its first heat wave.
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