CCTV9英语新闻：土耳其矿难最新 煤矿爆炸事故目前已致274人遇难（在线收听）

Turkish officials reported at least 274 miners have been reported dead after a coal mine explosion and fire in the western town of Soma. According to the mining company nearly 450 miners were rescued. Earlier reports said 120 workers are believed to be still trapped.

People rescue the trapped miners in the Soma district of Turkey's Manisa province on May 13, 2014.  (Xinhua/Cihan)

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited the site of the disaster on Wednesday, and vowed a thorough investigation to "the smallest detail". Erdogan declared three days of national mourning and ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff after the tragedy struck on Tuesday.

Protesters have gathered near the accident scene and in downtown Soma, expressing anger at Erdogan’s government.

In this photo released by the Turkish Prime Minister's Press Office, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is surrounded by security members as he visits the coal mine in Soma, Turkey, Wednesday, May 14, 2014.