Peruvian authorities have reported that at least 27 workers were killed in a fire that broke out deep in a gold mine in southern Peru during an overnight shift. The Yanaquihua mining company confirmed that 175 workers were safely evacuated after the accident, and the 27 deceased workers were from a mining contractor.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by government officials, with preliminary reports indicating a possible explosion caused by a short circuit in a section of the mine about 100 meters below the surface. Family members of the victims were brought to the mine in Yanaquihua and briefed by security agents, while some waited for the bodies of their loved ones at the entrance of the mine.

Authorities are taking steps to investigate the incident and determine the cause of the tragic event. The Public Ministry of Arequipa's Fiscal District has issued a statement saying that its investigators are working to clarify what happened and determine the responsibilities of those involved.

The investigation will seek to identify the cause of the fire and the parties responsible for the incident.