Japanese PM sends condolences to Taiwan quake victims

Tokyo, Feb 6: Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has condoled the deaths and injuries in a powerful earthquake that rocked Taiwan early Saturday.

The Japanese leader said he was deeply concerned by the reports of the devastation caused by the quake, adding that Japan would help Taiwan to recover from the tragedy, Xinhua reported.

"I am saddened to hear about the extensive damage. I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to those who died and offer deepest sympathies to the afflicted," Abe said.

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.7 hit southern Taiwan early Saturday, with at least five people killed and hundreds injured.

The TV reports have shown extensive damage to buildings in the region due to the temblor.

Search and rescue operations are underway to save those who may still be trapped inside the quake-stricken buildings.

IANS