Gharb explosion: Search ends as fourth victim is found

Updated 11.45 a.m. - The search on the site of the Gharb fireworks factory explosion ended at about 11.30 a.m. today after the remains of the fourth victim were found. The other three victims were found yesterday. Meanwhile Magistrate Josette Demicoli held an inquiry on the site this morning, while people familiar with the factory were questioned at Victoria police station by explosives experts. It is understood that they were questioned on the layout of the factory, work practices and materials used. Yesterday’s explosion flattened three rooms which were located close to each other. It also demolished the roof of a room used to store some materials, but the main fireworks store, located 40 metres away, survived intact, although its door was blown in.  Rescue dogs were used in the search and a mechanical shovel was brought in late yesterday to move concrete slabs.  Army experts have remained on site to remove unexploded petards and make the area safe. Meanwhile, Nadur Council said that out of respect for one of the victims, who is from Nadur, it had cancelled all activities due this week in connection with Council Week. A blood donation drive will however still be held. The...