A devastating explosion tore through an explosives manufacturing plant in northwestern Turkey on Tuesday, claiming the lives of 12 workers and injuring five others, officials confirmed.
The blast occurred at 8:25 a.m. (0525 GMT) in the Karesi district of Balıkesir province, causing a section of the factory to collapse under the impact. Local governor İsmail Ustaoglu reported, “According to initial findings, 12 employees have died, and five others were hospitalized with injuries. Thankfully, their condition is not critical.”
Emergency services responded swiftly, extinguishing the blaze and ensuring that no staff members were left inside the facility. Ambulances and rescue teams remained on standby as shattered glass and debris littered the site.
Investigation Underway
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated that the cause of the explosion remains unknown. “We are investigating to determine the exact cause,” he said. Local officials suggested the blast may have resulted from technical issues, ruling out sabotage. Prosecutors have launched a detailed inquiry into the incident.
Official Reactions
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed his sorrow over the tragedy in a message on social media, describing the deceased workers as “12 brothers” and emphasizing that a thorough investigation had been ordered.
Witnesses compared the aftermath to a “battlefield,” with part of the building reduced to rubble. Security forces, including Turkish soldiers, cordoned off the area, preventing civilians and media from approaching while precautions were taken against a potential second explosion.
Background
The plant, located away from residential areas, produces munitions, explosives, and flares for domestic and international markets. Turkey has been expanding its defense manufacturing capabilities in recent years, with President Erdoğan strongly backing the industry.
Similar incidents have occurred in the past. In 2020, an explosion at a fireworks factory in northwestern Turkey killed seven people and injured 127. In 2023, a blast at a military explosives factory near Ankara left five dead.
Authorities have vowed to ensure accountability for the latest tragedy while offering condolences to the families of the victims.
Key Points:
- Fatal Explosion: A powerful blast at an explosives plant in Balıkesir, Turkey, killed 12 workers and injured five others.
- Incident Details: The explosion occurred at 8:25 a.m., collapsing part of the facility and scattering debris across the site.
- Investigation Launched: Authorities are investigating the cause, with local officials pointing to “technical reasons” and ruling out sabotage.
- Official Reactions: President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed condolences and ordered a thorough inquiry into the incident.
- Past Incidents: Turkey has a history of similar factory explosions, including incidents in 2020 and 2023, highlighting safety concerns in the defense sector.
- Security Measures: The facility is cordoned off by Turkish soldiers, with precautions in place to prevent further incidents.
- Defense Industry: The plant manufactures munitions and explosives for domestic and international markets, reflecting Turkey’s growing defense exports.
