Many trapped in shopping mall after explosion in Kumamoto prefecture

Japan's Fire and Disaster Management Agency said Tuesday that many people are believed trapped inside a shopping mall building in Kumamoto prefecture after an explosion. Some are reportedly injured.

The incident occurred in an area that had previously been heavily affected by earthquakes in Kumamoto. No official casualty figures have been released.

Rescue teams are conducting search and rescue operations at the scene. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation.