Thirteen Cuban soldiers missing following deadly explosions at ammunition depot

In Cuba, a significant incident occurred in the eastern province of Holguin early on Tuesday, where explosions erupted at an arms and ammunition depot. The blasts caused panic in the small rural community of Melones, which is situated about 450 miles (724 km) southeast of Havana. The source of the explosions was originally attributed to a fire at a construction site. Authorities are currently investigating the precise cause and circumstances surrounding the explosions. The military reported that four officers and nine soldiers are among the missing personnel. In response to the incident, soldiers and local law enforcement secured access routes to the explosion site while rescue teams and firefighters worked diligently to extinguish the flames. Videos circulating on social media depict substantial plumes of dark smoke and flames rising from the densely wooded area where the depot is located. Prior to the incident, officials had already taken precautionary measures by evacuating 361 residents to a safe location to protect them from potential harm caused by the explosions. The community is grappling with concerns regarding the safety and whereabouts of the soldiers who are unaccounted for. Cuban authorities have not only emphasized the urgency of the rescue operations but also pledged full transparency in the ongoing investigation. As the situation unfolds, there is an increasing demand for answers from the families of the missing soldiers, along with the local community. Public sentiment is likely to heighten as more information about the incident becomes available. With a robust military presence in the vicinity, updates on the search and rescue operations are anticipated in the coming days, highlighted by the commitment of both local and national authorities to resolve this crisis as a priority.