01.06.2026 15:01
A powerful explosion at the Ta' Lourdes fireworks factory in Malta's Maghtab region caused panic across the country. The blast, heard from miles away, lightly injured two people aged 67 and 47, while shattering windows of numerous buildings. Witnesses reported the tremor created a strong pressure wave, as police and emergency teams launched a large-scale investigation in the area. The inquiry into the incident is ongoing.
A powerful explosion at the Ta' Lourdes fireworks factory in Malta's Maghtab area caused panic in the country. The blast, heard from miles away, left two people slightly injured and shattered windows of numerous buildings.
EXPLOSION HEARD FROM MILES AWAY
The explosion occurred at the Ta' Lourdes fireworks factory on Monday morning at around 06:30 local time. The force of the blast shook surrounding buildings and was felt in many parts of Malta.
Authorities stated that none of the factory's licensed employees were on site at the time of the incident.
TWO PEOPLE HOSPITALIZED
Two individuals, aged 67 and 47, who were in fields near the factory during the explosion, sustained minor injuries. The shocked victims were taken to Mater Dei Hospital by ambulances.
"I THOUGHT WE WERE BEING BOMBED"
A witness to the explosion recounted that initially, they thought a gas cylinder had exploded, but soon experienced great fear as successive blasts occurred.
The witness said, "The pressure wave moved my hair, trees swayed. My dogs panicked. I have never been so scared in my life. For a moment, I thought we were being bombed."
MAJOR IMPACT ACROSS THE COUNTRY
Following the explosion, police, civil defense teams, the army, and medical personnel launched extensive operations in the area. As investigations continue, Prime Minister Robert Abela and opposition leader Alex Borg also issued messages of condolences to those affected by the blast.