An illegal fireworks factory exploded killing nine people and injuring five others in Thailand this morning.

The blast ripped through the property in Suphanburi province, around 70 miles north of the capital Bangkok, at 11am local time.

Police found bodies of residents who had been working in the property scattered among the debris. Several other injured victims were rushed to hospital.

Footage from the scene showed how the roof of the single-story structure had been blown off by the force of the blast. Metal roof beams were scattered across the field.

Officials said the warehouse was operating without a license.

Piriya Chantadilok, Governor of Suphanburi province, said: 'The factory was producing fireworks to be smuggled and sold illegally.'