Blast Hits Ammunition Plant Near Rome, No Casualties Reported

An explosion rocked an ammunition manufacturing facility in Colleferro, a town near Rome, on Thursday, according to local authorities. No injuries have been reported so far.

The blast occurred after a fire broke out at the plant, which was formerly known as Simmel Difesa and is now operated by KNDS Ammo Italy. The facility produces ammunition and other defense-related equipment.

Francesco Rocca, president of the Lazio region, confirmed the incident and said the immediate focus is on safeguarding people and enabling emergency crews to work effectively. "At this time, the absolute priority is to ensure people's safety and allow all personnel involved in the emergency response to operate under the best possible conditions," Rocca said in a statement.

Initial local media reports indicate that all workers at the site are safe. The blast may have originated in the plant's powder-pressing department.

Firefighters and police were dispatched to the scene as the fire continued to burn. Residents in the surrounding area reported hearing a loud explosion.