A minor explosion on a Marine Department vessel in a government dockyard this morning injured six people, the department confirmed in a post on its verified Facebook account.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:30 am while the vessel was undergoing its annual inspection. The explosion took place in the bow compartment, producing white smoke.

Three government personnel and three outsourced employees were injured in the blast. All six individuals were conscious when they were sent to the hospital for treatment.

Preliminary investigations suggest the explosion was caused by the ignition of gas leaked from batteries in the bow compartment, which was triggered when the windlass was started.

The Marine Department said it department personnel have been dispatched to the site to assist in the investigation.

The department has also sent personnel to visit the injured workers in the hospital. It was reported that four of them are expected to be discharged later, while the remaining two will stay for further observation. The Marine Department has pledged to provide all necessary assistance to the affected individuals.

The department reiterated its commitment to employee safety, noting that all staff members receive regular occupational safety training and are equipped with appropriate safety gear while on duty.