A German coal mining company has suspended operations after causing an earthquake.
The quake, in the Saarlouis region near the French border, measured 4.0 on the Richter scale and originated more than 1km underground.
No injuries were reported, but electricity supply was disrupted and buildings sustained minor damage.
Mining company RAG Deutsche Steinkohle says it is not immediately clear what caused the quake, and has suspended mining until further notice.
Around 1,000 people gathered near the epicentre in Saarwellingen demanding an end to mining work, which has sparked dozens of small tremors this year.
By Elizabeth Clifford-Marsh
