At least five people were killed and more than 100 others injured when a catastrophic fire followed by explosions at a golf ball manufacturing facility in Pingtung county, southern Taiwan.

The calamity began on Friday night when a ferocious blaze ignited at the factory, intensifying through the night. Heartbreakingly, three brave firefighters were among the casualties, according to authorities.

Search and rescue teams are tirelessly working to locate four factory workers and one firefighter who remain missing, officials reported. Over 100 injured individuals were swiftly transported to hospitals for medical care.

Taiwan's President, Tsai Ing-wen, conveyed her condolences to the victims' families during a speech in Taipei on Saturday. She also pledged to visit Pingtung to personally offer support to those affected by this tragic incident, as reported by the Taiwanese news outlet Focus Taiwan.

President Tsai highlighted that the Pingtung county government has established an emergency operation center to provide aid to those impacted by the fire.

Chou Chun-mi, the magistrate of Pingtung county, expressed her deep sorrow over the incident, acknowledging that investigations into the fire's cause are still ongoing. She shared her grief.

“Facing the grief of the family members, I could not say anything except to bow deeply, apologize, and express my deepest condolences," she wrote on Facebook after visiting the funeral home and meeting with the families of the victims.

Authorities have indicated that natural gas might have played a role in the explosions, which occurred as firefighters were valiantly working to extinguish the flames. The investigation into the incident remains active as the community mourns this tragic loss. (ILKHA)