Powerful explosion heard near Moldova’s capital

A powerful explosion was reported early on September 18 in a village east of Moldova’s capital, Chisinau, prompting police to launch an investigation into its cause.

Moldovan police said they received several reports from residents at around 4:20 a.m. local time about a loud explosion in the southwestern part of Colonita, located about 2 kilometres east of Chisinau.

The sound was also recorded by surveillance cameras, police said.

Law enforcement officers were dispatched to inspect the area, with the search later expanded to the neighbouring villages of Dolinnoe and Maksimovka.

Police have not yet determined what caused the explosion.

Authorities have urged local residents to remain alert for any suspicious objects and immediately contact police if they find anything unusual.

By Sabina Mammadli