What we’ve learned in the last week following several expert reactions to the Beirut blast is that the amount of ammonium nitrate that exploded apparently did not exceed 300 tonnes. This is still a considerable amount, and Reuters came up with graphics, based on the 200-300 tonnes estimate, to compare the explosion at Beirut’s port with other major explosions that took place around the world.
This being said, we now have three issues that need investigation:
– Who decided to unload the 2750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate?
– Where did the remaining 2400 tonnes go if only 300 tonnes exploded?
– What triggered the explosion?
We were expecting a swift investigation from the authorities, but as usual, they’re starting to make up excuses to try delay the matter and save their people or compromise the investigation somehow. Luckily, we have French & American inspectors on site, so let’s hope this will stop them from tampering “further” with the crime scene.
The only people investigating this matter seriously so far are Al Jadeed team. Thumbs up to Riad Kobeissi, Layal Bou Moussa, Jad Ghosn and all the team!