An explosion occurred at a firework factory managed by the Defence Ministry in the northern province of Phu Tho in the morning of October 12.

The blast at Factory Z121, located in Khai Xuan and Vo Lao communes in Thanh Ba district, caused tremors that affected areas around the factory.

The facility is the only in the country that produces fireworks for national ceremonies.

Authorised agencies are investigating the explosion and introducing measures to ensure safety for local people.

The number of casualties from the blast remains unknown.-VNA