Coal Mine Explosion in Colombia Kills 20

An explosion at a coal mine in the Norte de Santander province of Colombia left at least 20 people dead and 6 others injured. The explosion, which occurred Wednesday morning around 7 o’clock at the La Preciosa mine, is believed to have been caused by a buildup of methane gas.

The number of miners trapped underground is unknown. The Colombian Institute of Geology and Mining, also known as Ingeominas, sent rescue workers to the scene. "At this time, personnel from Ingeominas are at the scene of the accident dealing with the emergency with a group of institute rescue workers aided by the 5th Brigade of the national army, who brought in a helicopter for possible rescue efforts and to transport the victims," Ingeominas said in a statement.

So far, 8 bodies have been recovered from La Preciosa.

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