The five jailed over the 2005 mine blast was the mine-owner and four of his employees. Ma Jinguang, who owned the Dongfeng Coal Mine in Qitaihe was sentenced to six years in prisoner. The others received prison terms between three and a half to five years.
It is unknown if the five would lodge appeals. This is recorded as the deadliest mine blast in China’s history. Ma was charged and convicted of neglecting regulations along with failing to ensure work safety.
48 people were injured according to the Chinese state news agency. It also adds that the country suffered losses of forty-three million yuan. Ma was arrested a short period after the blast. But, it is unknown why it took so long for Ma to go to trial.
While there is a much publicized government campaign about safety in the mines, these accidents are still widespread throughout the country.