Hanoi (VNA) - Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on December 5 signed to issue an official dispatch regarding the aftermath of an incident during a military exercise in Military Region 7 in Xuan Tam commune, Xuan Loc district, the southern province of Dong Nai.
The dispatch was sent to the ministers of national defence; and labour, invalids and social affairs; and the Chairperson of the Dong Nai provincial People’s Committee.
The dispatch states that at 20:27 on December 2, at the National Shooting Range in Zone 3 based in Xuan Loc district, Dong Nai province, an incident occurred during a defence exercise, leaving 12 casualties. Initial findings revealed that lightning struck an electric detonator, causing it to trigger and detonate the explosives.
The Government leader extended the deepest condolences to the families and relatives of the victims.
He asked the Ministry of National Defence to coordinate with relevant ministries, agencies, and local authorities to offer condolences and support to the families of the victims, ensure that the families receive the best possible assistance, including appropriate policies and compensation for both the soldiers and their families. He requested thorough organisation of funerals for the victims, and rapid settlement of the consequences of the incident.
The ministry was urged to launch an investigation into the incident by examining the scene, reviewing all procedures related to the command and operation of the exercise; while learning from this lesson to overcome limitations and ensure absolute safety in training and exercises./.
Initial information about incident during military drill in Military Region 7
The Military Region 7 organised a defence exercise under harsh weather conditions and in complex terrain from December 1-4.
