HCMC – Twelve soldiers have been reported missing following an explosion during a military drill conducted by Military Region 7 on Monday, December 2, according to the Ministry of National Defense.
The defense combat exercise, held under challenging weather conditions and on difficult terrain, took place from December 1 to 4.
At 8:27 p.m. on December 2, at National Shooting Range Area 3 in Xuan Tam Commune, Xuan Loc District, Dong Nai Province, a team from Battalion 17, Division 5, Military Region 7, was transporting explosives to a designated location when heavy rain and lightning struck.
While the soldiers were taking a break, the explosives went off unexpectedly, causing multiple casualties.
Unit commanders immediately arrived at the scene to manage the situation in accordance with regulations. Twelve personnel were initially reported missing. Most of the bodies have been recovered, but search efforts are still ongoing.
Preliminary investigations suggest that a lightning strike triggered a detonator, which then set off the explosives.
The Ministry of National Defense has instructed the Military Region 7 Command to work with relevant agencies and units to conduct a thorough site investigation, continue search efforts, and determine the cause of the incident.
They are also coordinating with local authorities and Party organizations to offer condolences, support affected families, and provide policy assistance for those injured or deceased.
This is a significant loss that cannot be compensated, deeply affecting the unit, the families, and their comrades, the Ministry emphasized.
