Explosion at Gelik mine in Zonguldak kills 2 workers

An explosion occurred in the morning at a private mine in Gelik, part of Zonguldak's Kilimli district. Two workers died and the injured workers were taken to hospitals. Health, fire and rescue teams were sent to the area, and an investigation has been launched.

Play video: Explosion at Gelik mine in Zonguldak kills 2 workers (Duration 1:01)

Statements from the governor and the mayor

Zonguldak Governor Osman Hacıbektaşoğlu said eight people were in the mine at the time. He said seven workers were brought out, two workers died, and two were intubated due to burns on their bodies. Rescue work continues to reach one worker still in the mine.

Gelik Mayor Burhan Sezgin said seven workers were injured in the explosion, two died at the scene and four were taken to hospital injured. Sezgin also said work was under way to bring one of the dead workers out of the mine.

Sezgin said the mine site has existed for roughly 20-30 years and has been operating since the 1990s. He said many accidents have unfortunately occurred in these pits.

We don't know what the gas is. It seeped out from the area we call the collapse section. We are currently focused on rescue work.

Gelik Mayor Burhan Sezgin

Sezgin said gas explosions are not very frequent because many precautions are taken, adding that methane and firedamp gas can accumulate in mining areas. Detailed information on the exact cause is expected after the authorities' examinations.