Six conscripts identified after bodies found in Viacha

Six conscripts who died in Friday’s explosions at the Bolivia Regiment in Viacha have been identified, while the Army says eight other bodies remain missing.

The dead are dragoneants Jhon Tancara Mita and Gabriel Choque Alanoca, and soldiers Wilson Copa Mamani, Wilder Oliver Arequipa Arequipa, Arnel Rubén Flores Poma and Brian Pacheco Monroy. Army Commander General Héctor Alarcón said their remains had been identified and taken to the morgue for legal processing and medical certification.

Two explosions on Friday left 84 people injured, two dead and 14 missing. Six of the missing military personnel have since been found, and their bodies were handed over to their families. Alarcón denied reports that rescuers had located a seventh body among the debris.

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There are currently six military personnel who have died. They have been fully identified, transferred to the morgue for the corresponding legal processing and to receive a medical certificate.

The search has moved into a more difficult phase. After large debris and rocks are removed, specialized equipment is needed to clear smaller stones and soil because the site remains dangerous. Firefighters are leading the operation with trained dogs, concentrating on areas marked during the search.

The case has also raised questions about how the explosives were handled. Authorities are seeking to avoid another incident like Friday’s blast, after reports indicated that conscripts without specialized training had been sent to manipulate explosives. Families burying their relatives have complained that they have received no assistance. Alarcón said the military personnel insurance would cover the troops and instructors, although the legal review is still under way. The Institute of Forensic Investigations has not commented on human remains found and handed over by local residents.

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Regarding responsibility for the military personnel’s insurance, the different families have already been informed that the insurance covering troops and instructors serving in the various units will take responsibility. The corresponding legal analysis is under way.