By Sukoluhle Ndlovu
An explosion at a mining explosives depot in Redcliff has killed a security guard and damaged more than 80 houses and businesses, with preliminary findings suggesting that suspected thieves may have triggered the blast while attempting to steal explosives.
The explosion occurred on Saturday evening, October 10, 2026, at the BIMCO explosives magazine, causing extensive damage in Redcliff, Rutendo and Torwood.
Windows were shattered, ceilings collapsed and walls developed cracks, while the force of the blast uprooted trees and destroyed vegetation around the site.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Municipality of Redcliff said investigations were underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
“Although investigations are still ongoing, preliminary findings indicate that the incident may have resulted from an attempted theft of explosives by suspected thieves,” the local authority said.
The municipality confirmed that the blast had caused widespread property damage across several suburbs.
“The explosion caused property damage across various Redcliff suburbs, including shattered windows, collapsed ceilings and other structural damage resulting from the impact,” it said.
More than 80 residential and commercial properties were affected, leaving residents and business owners counting their losses.
A security guard stationed at the BIMCO site was killed in the incident. Further details about the circumstances of his death had not been established.
The explosion also raised concerns about the safety of residents living near facilities storing mining explosives.
The municipality urged affected residents to register their details with the local authority to assist in documenting the damage.
It said it would continue monitoring the situation and provide updates as more information became available. Investigations into the suspected attempted theft and the cause of the explosion are continuing.
