26 killed after mine accident in China

October 9, 2009

At least 26 workers were killed and five were injured in China after an accident at a tin mine in the Hunan province, national media reported.

The official Chinese news agency Xinhua quoted a rescue team as saying that nineteen of the miners were killed instantly after two lifts fell due to a brake failure on Thursday. Another seven died later due to their injuries.

An investigation into the accident has been launched, Xinhua reported.

China has some of the most deadly mines in the world. Official statistics indicate that over 3,200 miners died in mine accidents in last year alone, although independent groups suggest the actual number might be higher, as not all incidents are reported.