An illegal electrical cable was responsible for triggering the massive explosion at the Salini fireworks factory in June, setting off up to 11 tonnes of explosives, a magisterial inquiry has found.The blast, which completely destroyed the Lourdes fireworks factory, was felt kilometres away, damaging nearby homes and fields.According to findings reported by Times of Malta, investigators established that an electrical cable supplying power to the factory caught fire, with flames spreading through dry leaves and debris before reaching a container holding explosive material.The initial explosion then triggered a series of blasts across the complex, where an estimated eight to 11 tonnes of explosives were being stored.The inquiry revealed that the factory had been illegally receiving electricity from a nearby farm for 26 years through an informal arrangement.A private electricity sub-meter was used to calculate the factory’s consumption, with licensee Edmond Saliba paying the farmer for the electricity used.However, the factory had reportedly never obtained a compliance certificate for its electricity supply.One witness told investigators that he had previously disconnected a faulty cable connected to the factory’s gunpowder machine and warned that a new armoured cable was required.Instead, a temporary extension cable was installed in the soil and connected to the electricity supply.Investigators believe a cable beneath a small shelter caught fire, with the flames eventually reaching a container that was supposed to be used for storing tools but was instead holding explosives.The resulting blast sent metal sheets flying into the air before setting off further explosions throughout the factory.The inquiry also uncovered serious shortcomings in how explosives were stored and manufactured at the site.Explosive materials were reportedly being kept in unauthorised locations, including containers, blast walls and other structures not intended for storage.Investigators also found evidence that fireworks were being manufactured in rooms that were not authorised for such activities.The findings raised questions about inspections carried out by the authorities.The factory’s last inspection, conducted on 19th September 2025, had returned a positive assessment despite the irregularities subsequently uncovered.Inspectors had described the factory’s maintenance and the experience of its pyrotechnic team as good, even recommending that its licence be renewed for 2026.The inquiry, led by Magistrate Joe Mifsud, reportedly identified failures in supervision by factory licensee Edmond Saliba, as well as shortcomings involving other individuals working at the site.It is also expected to recommend criminal charges against several people in connection with the explosion.The findings raise serious concerns about safety standards, oversight and the enforcement of regulations at Malta’s fireworks factories•