“I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who have been affected by this tragedy,” said Rio Tinto Chief Executive Jakob Stausholm. “As a company we are absolutely devastated by this news and offering our full support to our people and the community who are grieving today.

“We are working closely with authorities and will help in any way we can with their efforts to find out exactly what has happened.”