Chinese victims among 4 killed in Laos explosion

A devastating explosion at a shop in northern Laos claimed the lives of four individuals, including Chinese nationals, according to a statement from Beijing's consulate general in the country.

The incident occurred on Friday at a Chinese-owned store in Oudomxay province, as confirmed by the Chinese consulate in Luang Prabang.

Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the explosion, with investigations currently underway, both the consulate and local media reported.

Laos National Radio stated that three additional people sustained injuries in what was described as a "fire incident and explosion" at the shop in Nasao village.

The blast also inflicted "significant damage" to nearby houses, as reported by China's state-run Xinhua news agency.

In response to the tragedy, China’s ambassador to Laos, Fang Hong, has launched "all-out efforts" to facilitate medical treatment for the injured and provide support to the families of the victims.