Gorontalo. Five miners were killed after a landslide struck an illegal gold mining site in Hulawa village, Pohuwato Regency, Gorontalo, on Wednesday afternoon, police said.

The miners were working at the site when soil from a nearby slope suddenly gave way and buried them.

Preliminary information from police confirmed that five miners had been found dead.

"The victims were residents of Boalemo Regency, Gorontalo. Their bodies have been handed over to their families," Gorontalo Police spokesman Marupa Sagala said on Thursday.

Rescue teams were continuing to search the area on Thursday for possible additional victims who may remain buried under the debris.

Marupa said the operation was hampered by the site's remote location and difficult terrain.

"Police have not yet determined the total number of miners affected by the landslide. However, five people have been confirmed dead," he said.

One person has so far been found alive.

Authorities have not established how many people were at the mining site when the landslide occurred, leaving open the possibility that the casualty toll could rise as the search continues.

The illegal gold mining site in Hulawa reportedly uses heavy machinery in its operations and has previously been targeted by police enforcement.

Add as a preferred source on Google +