An emergency situation has been reported at an industrial site in Oskemen, Kazakhstan, where a dust-collection device reportedly exploded, triggering a fire and emergency response.

The fire at the premises of Kazzinc has been localized. Rescue teams are continuing to dismantle structures and fully extinguish remaining hotspots, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Search operations are ongoing, with preliminary reports indicating that four people have been taken to hospital.

“Search efforts for victims are underway. According to preliminary information, four individuals are being transported to medical facilities,” the Ministry of Emergency Situations said.

Around 40 emergency personnel and 10 units of equipment have been deployed, while the exact area affected by the fire is still being determined. An operational headquarters has been established, involving government agencies and emergency services.

Up to nine people may have been injured, with three in serious condition. One person is reportedly undergoing emergency resuscitation at the scene, while another was taken to hospital by company staff.