Explosion at Malta fireworks factory injures two men

A powerful explosion rocked a fireworks factory in Malta early Monday morning, injuring two men and sending a massive plume of smoke into the sky. The blast occurred at the Ta Lourdes fireworks factory in the Magħtab region shortly after 6:30 a.m. local time.

The two injured men, aged 67 and 47, were working in nearby fields and sustained minor injuries. Police confirmed that no licensed employees were present inside the factory at the time of the explosion. Witnesses described an initial powerful blast followed by a second major explosion shortly afterward, with smaller detonations continuing for hours afterward.

The force of the explosions was felt across a wide area, shaking buildings and shattering windows in nearby properties. Edward Mercieca, a local resident, said he was awakened by the first blast. He described the sensation as feeling like someone had picked up a hammer the size of a truck and banged on the side of his house. He estimated the resulting plume of smoke rose to a height of approximately 300 metres.

The incident prompted an immediate emergency response. Prime Minister Robert Abela stated on social media that his thoughts were with those affected and...