At least thirty coal miners are reported to have been trapped in a coal mine in north-eastern Colombia after an explosion.

Apparently, a build-up of gases had caused the explosion at the La Preciosa mine in Norte de Santander department near the Venezuelan.

According to Colombian media, the mayor of the town of Sardinata, Yamile Rangel, said eight other workers had been found, but their condition was unclear.

Colombian radio reports that rescue teams have been sent to the Sardinata area.