Blast leaves 11 dead

At least 11 people were killed and seven others injured in an explosion at a fireworks factory in eastern Indian state of West Bengal early Thursday.

Superintendent of police Bharati Ghosh said the blast took place at Pingla in West Midnapore district, Xinhua news agency reported.

Those injured included women and children with some remaining in critical condition.

Police said the death toll may increase.

The factory owner suspected of using the factory to manufacture bombs has absconded.

— BERNAMA