Three Killed, Two Trapped in C. China Coal Mine Cave-in Accident

Three killed, two trapped in C. China coal mine cave-in accident ZHENGZHOU, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) — A colliery cave-in accident has killed three, and left two others trapped, in Dengfeng city of central China’s Henan Province, said an official with the provincial work safety administration Sunday.

The tragedy occurred at 11:50 a.m. Saturday, in the Xuzhuang Xinghua No.2 colliery,when 29 coal miners were working in the colliery.A total of 24 miners escaped from the scene, and five were trapped underground.

The coal mine director organized rescue efforts, but didn’t report to local government. Local work safety bureau got report at about 11:20 p.m. Saturday, and sent 300 rescuers to the spot. Three bodies were found and condition of the other two remains unknown.

Xuzhuang Xinghua No.2 colliery is a joint-stock coal mine with complete set of certificates, and annual production capacity of 60,000 tons. Overhaul work was underway when the accident happened, the colliery director was detained by police.

Further investigation is underway.