Shillong, Feb 7: Two more bodies were recovered from an illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya on Saturday, raising the death toll from Thursday’s blast to 27, police confirmed.

The remains were found during ongoing multi-agency rescue operations in the Thangsku area of Umsngat village. Several workers are still missing, and search operations will continue until all are accounted for.

Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said efforts are underway to identify the deceased.

A suo motu FIR has been registered at Khliehriat police station under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, and Explosive Substances Act. Two individuals Forme Chyrmang (36) of Jalaphet Pordung village and Shamehi War (42) of Sutnga Pohwailong villagehave been arrested in connection with the incident.