A fire at a gold mine in eastern China’s Shandong province that trapped 10 workers has reportedly taken six lives.

The incident occurred at the Caojiawa operation in Zhaoyuan. Authorities told Xinhua the blaze started about 6 a.m. local time on 16 February. Four of the 10 miners were rescued.

The fire is the second such mining event in the province in 2021; 22 workers were trapped following an explosion at the Hushan mine on 10 January. At least 10 miners were killed and after 14 days trapped, 11 were rescued.

The Shandong province authorities are planning to commence a comprehensive, thorough inspection programme by the end of next month, the news wire said, with any failing mines slated for closure.

Sources: Xinhua, Reuters