China mine blast kills 82

The death toll from a massive gas explosion at a coal mine in Changzhi, Shanxi Province, has reached 82, making it the deadliest mining disaster in China for 17 years.

Local officials report that the mine had 'seriously' violated safety laws, though specific details of the negligence have yet to be fully disclosed.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has sent a message of condolence to President Xi Jinping as rescue operations conclude and criminal investigations begin.

The incident has renewed scrutiny of safety standards in China's mining sector despite recent government efforts to tighten regulations.