Shillong, Jan 4: Two persons died allegedly due to a dynamite explosion while breaking rocks to extract coal from an illegal mine at Thangsko village in East Jaintia Hills district.
According to a delayed report, the incident happened on December 23 leaving many injured.
While officials have yet to confirm the details surrounding the incident, sources said one suspected to be a Bangladeshi died the same day.
Another, identified as Ashok Tamang succumbed to his injuries on January 1 at Shillong Civil Hospital. He was admitted to the surgical ward.
Sources said the area known as “sorkari” property has many owners who illegally mine coal by engaging Bangladeshis. This is seen as a clandestine cover-up because workers from the neighbouring country could be pushed back in case of any untoward incidents.
The injured are suspected to be Bangladeshis, who have been sent back, it is feared.
Videos suggest that most of the miners received burnt injuries on their faces, back and neck.
