OTTAWA, July 23 (Reuters) - Three people are trapped

underground at a western Canadian mine operated by Newmont

Corporation ( NEM ), a senior elected official said on

Wednesday, adding that a rescue operation was under way.

David Eby, premier of the Pacific province of British

Columbia, said the three had been stranded at the Red Chris

copper and gold mine after an accident overnight.

"They are, to the best of our knowledge, uninjured and in a

refuge area," he told a televised press conference.

"Our rescue teams are exceptional, and they will be working

overtime to bring these workers home safely to their families,"

he said, but did not give details.

Newmont ( NEM ) has a 70% stake in the mine, which it operates. The

remaining 30% is held by Imperial Metals Corp. ( IPMLF )