ALMATY, Feb. 19 (Xinhua) -- Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev said the mine collapse in the Ulytau region of Kazakhstan was likely caused by a natural gas explosion, the Interfax-Kazakhstan News Agency reported Wednesday.
"According to preliminary data, a natural gas explosion occurred at the mine," Bozumbayev was quoted as saying.
Two special subcommittees have been established, one to determine the exact causes of the accident and the other to identify safety violations.
"These subcommittees must complete their work within 10 days. Work at the mine is currently suspended," Bozumbayev noted.
Seven people died in the mine collapse at the Zhomart mine on Monday night. Their bodies were recovered and handed over for forensic examination.
The police have opened a criminal case for violations of safety rules. ■
