Xinhua news agency reported the explosion took place on Monday at 11am at the Longtai Coal Mine, which has an annual capacity of 50,000 tons. The blast occurred when 29 miners were working 380 below the surface.

Nine miners were rescued immediately following the explosion, while the bodies of 20 miners were recovered over the following two days. Among the dead was the mine deputy manager and two gas technicians, China Daily reported.

The cause of the blast is still under investigation. The Xinhua News Agency reported that all mines in the county have been closed for safety checks.