At least five people were killed and 26 others injured in suspected gas explosion at a department store in Taiwan’s Taichung city . The explosion occurred on the 12th floor of the shopping mall, where construction work was underway, causing damage to spread from the 9th floor upwards. The officials said that the fire department received the information about explosion at 11:33 am. 136 personnel were personnel were rushed to the spot.

Rescue Ops Underway

President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan wrote on his Facebook page about the incident. He said, “Earlier, a gas explosion occurred at a department store in Taichung. Currently, Premier Su Tseng-chang has instructed the Ministry of the Interior’s Fire Department to quickly mobilize rescue teams. Additionally, the Ministry of Health and Welfare is actively coordinating medical resources to provide the best care for the injured, hoping for their swift recovery. I ask all responding personnel to be mindful of their safety and request that relevant agencies promptly clarify the cause of the incident. I also remind everyone not to approach the accident site to avoid hindering rescue efforts and to ensure personal safety. I hope the ongoing rescue operations proceed smoothly and safely.”

Among the deceased , two were tourists from Macau, as confirmed by Macao’s Tourism Office. They were part of a family of seven. The other five members are also injured and rushed to local hospitals in Taichung for treatment.

Speaking on the incident, Taichung Vice Mayor Cheng Chao-hsin said that action will be taken if nay irregularity is found. “If it’s found there were illegal actions or parts that violated renovation regulations, it will be dealt with appropriately,” added Cheng.