Kazzinc temporarily lowers production after explosion

ALMATY. May 12 (Interfax) - The Kazzinc metallurgical complex in eastern Kazakhstan has temporarily reduced production following an explosion last week that killed three people and injured five others, the company said Tuesday.

"The Ust-Kamenogorsk Metallurgical Complex has temporarily reduced capacity at its zinc and lead plants," Kazzinc said in a social media statement.

The company said cleanup efforts at the site and an investigation in coordination with state authorities are ongoing.

The explosion occurred May 5 when a dust-collection device detonated, causing a fire and partial building collapse.

Kazzinc is one of Kazakhstan's largest non-ferrous metallurgy enterprises, producing a full cycle of zinc, lead, copper, gold and silver - from ore mining to refined metal. The company's operations are located in the East Kazakhstan, Akmola and Ulytau regions. Kazzinc is controlled by Glencore.