Scene of the mine collapse. [Photo/Weibo]

A gypsum mine collapsed in east China's Shandong Province Friday, trapping 25 people underground, local authorities said.

Altogether 29 people were working in the shaft when the collapse happened at about 7:56 a.m. at the gypsum in Baotai Township, Pingyi County, a county government spokesman said.

Four had been lifted above ground, the spokesman said.

Rescuers are struggling to reach six others whose locations have been confirmed, while the other 19 remain missing, the spokesman said.

The accident at the mine, owned by the Yurong trade company, was likely caused by another collapse that hit a neighboring gypsum goaf, he said.

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