Fireworks explosion kills dozens

At least 28 people died when stands selling illegal fireworks ignited, setting fire to a market place, cars and buildings in the Mexican port city of Veracruz yesterday.

A city fire spokesman, Carlos Ortiz, said 28 bodies were recovered and 50 people were injured. Authorities expect the death toll to rise, as the blaze raged for more than six hours and destroyed an entire block of buildings.

Most of the victims died from burns and smoke inhalation. Rescue workers found the incinerated bodies of 16 women who had taken refuge inside a clothing shop where they worked.

City officials had tried to shut down the fireworks stands in the area on December 24, but stood down after the stand owners beat them back with sticks. Fireworks explosions are common in Mexico, where many factories and stands operate illegally.