DHAKA: A large explosion at an oil facility in the south-east Mexican state of Veracruz has killed at least three people and injured over 100.

The blast hit a facility owned by Mexico’s state oil company, Pemex, in the port city of Coatzacoalcos, reports the BBC.

Hundreds of people have been evacuated and schools closed. Footage showed a large fire and vast plumes of smoke.

A series of explosions have been reported at other Pemex facilities in recent years.

The latest incident occurred around 15:15 local time (20:15 GMT), Pemex said in a statement. Veracruz state Governor Javier Duarte told a radio station the blast was felt 10km (six miles) away.

The fire was under control by early evening, Pemex said. Residents were told to stay indoors because of the possible toxic nature of the smoke from the blast, but Pemex said the smoke dissipated quickly, lessening any possible toxic effects.

Of the injured, 58 were employees at the plant, Duarte said.

BDST: 0859 HRS, APR 21, 2016
SR