Chitungwiza explosion: experts speak

Experts say there is no mystery surrounding the Chitungwiza explosion as the information released on what transpired during the explosion is concrete evidence of an incendiary bomb detonation.

Retired Brigadier Felix Muchemwa says the impact of the explosion and its effects on the charred remains of the victims points to a bomb blast.

"There is no mysticism involved. All the signs point to an incendiary bomb and talk that there was no fire is hogwash.

"How could people be burnt without fire? It is a simple bomb of an incendiary nature."

He dispelled the notion of red mercury saying it would require large quantities of the chemical to trigger an explosion of the magnitude which rocked Chitungwiza.

However, the Zimbabwe Republic Police says investigations are still in their infancy as forensic analyses take time and require experts.

Meanwhile, the Chitungwiza Civil Protection Committee has come to the aid of the affected families by pledging assistance.

"We have come on board to assess the impact of the humanitarian situaion and so far we have identified varying needs.

"Together with our partners, we pledge to provide tents as temporary shelter, food and blankets, while we see if we can get funding to provide permanent solutions."

While the municipality, ZESA, Red Cross and other partners have pledged to assist, some affected people have already taken it upon themselves to repair damages to their properties.

As investigations into the explosion continue, a humanitarian crisis might be brewing.

It is reported that most children are still in shock and are refusing to go outdoors since the incident.