A powerful explosion at an emerald mine in the north central Colombian department of Boyaca injured two workers after their apparent improper handling of dynamite, RCN Radio reported Tuesday.
The blast took place at a mine in Quipama, in a rural western area of the department, causing severe injuries to two of the workers. One of the victims was reported to have lost both of his legs, while the other suffered serious facial burns.
The two wounded men, aged 49 and 51, were initially taken to a local health center but due to the severity of their injuries they were then rushed to the San Rafael de Tunja hospital which was better equipped to deal with them.
Although the exact causes of the explosion are unknown, early reports suggested that it was due to improper use of dynamite. Caracol reports that authorities are now investigating whether the site had all the sufficient safety permits required for operation.