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According to state run news agency Xinhua, the crash occurred on Thursday morning at the Hongfa coal mine in China’s Hunan province.
It’s believed the eight-car carriage which was carrying the miners unhooked, crashing into the tunnel and killing the 15 men instantly.
The three surviving miners sustained injuries after being thrown from the carriages.
They are being treated in hospital for their injuries.
The news service said riding in the carriages, which are used to transport coal, was prohibited.
Police have reportedly taken the mine managers into custody.
The Hongfa coal mine is fully licensed and produces 60,000 tonnes of coal per annum.
