- An explosion at a fireworks factory in Changsha, Hunan province, central China, killed at least 26 people and injured 61.
- The blast occurred on Monday afternoon, flattening buildings, shattering windows, and damaging houses, leading to the evacuation of nearby residents due to ongoing risks.
- Over 1,500 emergency personnel, including firefighters, medical staff, and police, were deployed to the scene, utilising drones and robots for search and hazard control.
- The cause of the explosion is currently under investigation, and the person in charge of the Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company has been detained.
- President Xi Jinping called for a thorough investigation and enhanced safety measures, while the Changsha government apologised to victims and ordered all city fireworks companies to suspend production for inspections.
IN FULL
