Cause of fireworks factory blast remains a mystery

Enthusiasts are baffled by the explosion at St Joseph Fireworks Factory in Ghaxaq on Thursday night.

Marvic Abela, president of St Joseph Musical Society, said that although the blast took place in a room where substances were mixed, no machinery was being used at the time.

The explosion, which took place at about 11.40 p.m., blew away what is known as the mixing room and part of the compound's perimeter wall.

"We have no idea what caused this. The amount of material was small because we have not started making fireworks for the new season," Mr Abela said, adding that no lightning was known to have struck the area at the time.

Samples were lifted for further examination and the society was keen to receive the result, just in case some materials were defective.

Residents in the area were rudely awakened by the blast and ran outside, fearing the worst. But once the rescuers arrived it was quickly established that nobody was inside.

Enthusiasts also assembled at the scene to offer their advice and lend a hand. They were soon followed by concerned relatives who complained about the dangers of the pastime.

Duty Magistrate Doreen Clarke launched an inquiry and investigations are underway by the district police, headed by Inspector Priscilla Caruana.

This was not the first time an explosion took place at the factory. On February 16, 1970, five men died and 11 were injured in a powerful blast.

kbugeja@timesofmalta.com