A gas leak at a coal mine in Kyrgyzstan has left two miners dead after a dangerous buildup of carbon dioxide deep underground.

The incident occurred at the Asar mine in the city of Sulukta, prompting an emergency rescue operation, The Caspian Post reports via Turmush.

Some 12 rescuers were dispatched to the site following reports of a gas release inside the mine.

During the operation, emergency teams discovered that carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels had reached 5.6% in Ventilation Shaft No. 2, located approximately 240 meters below ground.

Two miners became trapped inside the mine and suffered severe gas poisoning as a result of the leak.

Rescuers managed to reach the victims, provide first aid, and bring them safely to the surface before handing them over to medical personnel.

However, doctors later confirmed that the two men, aged 23 and 66, died from carbon dioxide poisoning.

Following the recovery effort, rescue teams completed their mission and returned to their permanent base.