Colombian police are investigating explosions at two shipyards in Cartagena that killed at least six people and injured 22 others on Wednesday.

Black plumes of smoke rose into the sky from the Marmonal Industrial Complex, where relatives of workers at the shipyard gathered awaiting news.

Authorities said the explosion took place on a tanker barge which was undergoing maintenance at a facility operated by the Cotecmar firm, which is linked to Colombia’s defence ministry.

A fire-service representative said it is suspected that a build-up of gases led to the explosion.

Authorities are investigating the causes.

Tags: Colombian, shipyard explosion