“No injuries were reported.”

So confirmed Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) spokesperson Lindi Rabopape in light of reports of an explosion at the Somerset West depot earlier this morning (Tuesday 28 April).

Social media platforms are abuzz as emergency services are said to have descended on the local ammunitions manufacturer site in Reed Road after a blast shook the surrounding areas.

Rabopape confirmed that at a fire incident occurred at the RDM facility around 09:50.

“Local emergency services and RDM’s own teams were quickly dispatched to manage the incident,” she said.”An investigation into the cause of the incident will take place once officials declare the area safe. RDM is committed to operating safely and responsibly and will cooperate fully with the relevant authorities during the investigation.”

The explosion rattled community members, many of whom reported feeling a shockwave moments before the explosion, particularly in adjacent areas such as Paardevlei. Photos posted to social media show smoke bellowing from a distance with flames also clearly visible.

– This is a developing story.

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