Explosion in munitions warehouse injures one at Czech arms plant

An explosion occurred at the Poličské strojírny arms plant in eastern Czechia, resulting in serious injuries to one individual.

Emergency services confirmed that the blast took place within a munitions warehouse at the facility, prompting a large-scale response. The injured person was airlifted to a hospital in Olomouc for treatment, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

According to authorities, the explosion triggered the third-highest emergency level, and a total of 11 fire units were dispatched to the site. The plant, operated by the STV Group, specializes in large-caliber ammunition and military equipment, including supplies used in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Fire brigade spokesperson Vendula Horáková confirmed the blast, stating, “I can confirm that there was an explosion. A fire alarm has been announced.”

In addition to the immediate fire response, evacuation measures were implemented, with several neighborhoods near the scene cleared for safety. Emergency services emphasized that no further injuries have been reported, and authorities assured the public that there was no danger to local residents.

The explosion caused the closure of the nearby road connecting Polička to Korouhev, and several other routes remain blocked. The Czech Ministry of the Interior has yet to release detailed information on the cause of the explosion, and the company operating the plant has indicated that it will issue a statement later in the afternoon.

The Polička plant not only stores large-caliber ammunition but also serves as a production and repair facility for military equipment. While the explosion's exact cause remains under investigation, the facility’s significance to defence operations in Ukraine has drawn particular attention.

Local authorities continue to monitor the situation, and fire crews are working diligently to ensure the site is secure.

By Vafa Guliyeva