China mine blast kills 90, traps 9; executives arrested

At least 90 miners are dead and nine remain trapped following a powerful gas explosion at the Liushenyu coal mine in China's Shanxi province. The blast occurred late Friday night, with initial reports indicating that carbon monoxide levels had exceeded safety limits.

Around 247 workers were underground when the explosion occurred. Rescue operations, hampered by dangerous conditions and toxic gas concentrations, continued through the night. Rescuers face significant challenges due to the mine's steep 30-degree incline and the need to transport equipment via special carts.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered an immediate investigation into the cause of the accident and called for relentless rescue efforts. Many of the injured suffered from toxic gas poisoning. Company executives have been arrested as the death toll climbed.

Shanxi province is a major coal-producing region in China, accounting for nearly a third of the country's total output last year. The Liushenyu mine is located near the city of Changzhi.