Five Chinese miners were killed on Tuesday when an explosion occurred in a coal mine in northern Turkey, according to the Anatolia News Agency.

The explosion is reported to have taken place in a mine belonging to the Turkish Coal Institution in Zonguldak province. Five Chinese miners have so far been confirmed dead, with two others slightly injured, but local authorities say the numbers might rise.

China's embassy in Turkey is now dealing with the aftermath, and an investigation into the cause of the accident is under way.

(CCTV.com March 17, 2004)