On May 4 a gas explosion at the La Ciscuda coal mine in Sutatausa, Colombia, killed nine workers and injured six. The blast, which occurred around 4:00 p.m., was linked to a build-up of gases, particularly methane. Inspectors had examined the mine on April 9 and issued safety recommendations, including sealing abandoned areas where gas emissions were found. Rescue teams are recovering bodies while authorities investigate and seek comment from the operator, Carbonera Los Pinos SAS.
Nine Dead, Six Hospitalized After Gas Explosion at La Ciscuda Coal Mine — Safety Warnings Issued Weeks Earlier
Fire officials responding to the explosion in Colombia on May 4, 2026Credit: Handout / Cundinamarca Fire Department / AFP via Getty
Nine workers were killed and six others hospitalized after a gas explosion struck the La Ciscuda coal mine in Sutatausa, Colombia, on Monday, May 4. Colombia's National Mining Agency confirmed the toll in a press release, saying the six survivors were rescued and taken to Ubaté Regional Hospital for treatment.
The blast occurred at approximately 4:00 p.m. local time inside the La Ciscuda mine, which is operated by Carbonera Los Pinos SAS. Authorities attributed the explosion to a dangerous build-up of gases, particularly methane, in underground workings.
The scene of the gas explosion in Colombia on May 4, 2026Credit: Handout / Cundinamarca Fire Department / AFP via Getty
Official Statement: "The incident, caused by an explosion inside the mine, left a total of 15 workers affected," the agency said. "The six people evacuated alive were taken to the Ubaté Regional Hospital, where they are receiving medical attention."
Regional fire department captain Álvaro Farfán told the BBC that rescue teams remained on site attempting to recover the bodies from the mine and that operations were ongoing.
Miners walking around the site of the explosion in Colombia on May 4, 2026Credit: Luis ACOSTA / AFP via Getty
Previous Inspection And Safety Recommendations
The National Mining Agency reported it inspected La Ciscuda on April 9 and issued a report identifying safety problems and recommending corrective measures. Inspectors noted the presence of coal dust in material transfer areas and advised installing barriers. They also urged the complete sealing of abandoned sections where gas emissions, especially methane, had been detected and could produce hazardous accumulations.
Authorities said the explosion was linked to those accumulations of gas. Investigators have contacted Carbonera Los Pinos SAS for comment and continue to probe the circumstances that led to the blast.
Context And Previous Incidents
Mining accidents have occurred repeatedly in Colombia in recent years. In 2023, an explosion at a group of coal mines in Sutatausa killed 21 people, according to the BBC. Colombian authorities have frequently warned about methane and other gas risks in underground coal workings.
What Happens Next: Officials are continuing rescue and recovery efforts while investigators review inspection records, enforcement actions and whether recommended safety fixes had been implemented before the explosion.
Help us improve.
