An explosion strikes an ammunition plant near Rome; no injuries reported

An explosion has struck an ammunition manufacturing plant near Rome, local authorities say

ROME -- An explosion struck an ammunition manufacturing plant in the town of Colleferro near Rome on Thursday, local authorities said. There were no immediate reports of injuries.

The explosion followed a fire that broke out at the former Simmel Difesa facility, now owned by KNDS Ammo Italy, which produces ammunition and other defense-related products, said Francesco Rocca, president of the Lazio region.

“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 reports by local media said that all workers at the plant were safe, and that the blast may have originated in the plant’s powder-pressing department.

Emergency crews, including firefighters and police, responded to the site as the fire continued to burn. Residents reported hearing a loud explosion across the area.