A tragic military training accident in Vietnam has left 12 soldiers dead following a powerful explosion.
The incident occurred on Monday evening at a firing range in Dong Nai Province, southern Vietnam, during an intensive training exercise by the 7th Military Region.
The Ministry of Defense reported that the exercise was being conducted under challenging conditions, including severe weather and difficult terrain.
The explosion happened during the transport of explosive devices amidst heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
Efforts to recover the victims' remains are ongoing, with most of the bodies already retrieved.
Authorities stated that the initial investigation points to a lightning strike on an electric detonator, which triggered the detonation of the explosives.
The ministry described the event as a significant loss for the military and extended its condolences to the victims' families and friends, recognizing their sacrifice during the training exercise.