New Delhi, April 19 -- At least 18 people were reportedly killed, while six others sustained serious injuries in a massive Virudhunagar firecracker manufacturing unit in Tamil Nadu, police said on Sunday, news agency PTI reported.

The explosion occurred at the 'Vanaja' fireworks factory owned by Muthumanickam, in Kattanarpatti near Virudhnagar. The place is located within the Vachakarapatti police station limits.

Citing police and rescue officials, the report said at least four of the six injured are currently in critical condition and are receiving treatment at the Virudhunagar Government Medical College Hospital.

Initial investigation revealed that the unit reportedly has a license from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisatio...