Georgian PM expresses sorrow following death of Turkish miners

Georgia’ Prime Minister and the local mining community are sending their condolences to Turkey following a coal mine explosion that killed at least 205 workers and left hundreds more missing underground.

The explosion, which occurred in the early hours of this morning, caused mass casualties. The death toll was continuing to rise as rescuers enter the mine but hope is fading whether any more survivors will be found.

Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Garibahsvili issued an official letter that offered his condolences to those affected by the mine explosion.

In his letter, released earlier today, Garibashvili said he was saddened by the "terrible tragedy” and hoped rescuers would manage to reach the 200-plus miners who were still trapped deep underground.

"On the behalf of the Georgian Government, I express my condolences to the Turkish Government, the miners and the families of those who died in this tragedy. I wish for them to be strong enough to overcome this terrible tragedy,” Garibahsvili said.

Georgian miners also expressed their deep sorrow.

"Especially for us, this tragedy is very hard and emotional as each of us is fully aware of the risks this profession is accompanied with,” read a statement on behalf of Georgian miners.

Latest information stated 787 people were inside the coal mine in Soma, western Turkey, when it is believed an electrical fault triggered the blast.

So far only 363 of these miners, including those killed, have been accounted for. A further 80 miners were injured in the incident, including four who sustained serious injuries.

Meanwhile rescuers are continuing to attempt to reach the remaining miners – at least 200 – who remain trapped in the mine.