Explosion at an explosives factory in Turkey Photo: AFP
At least 12 people have been killed and three injured in an explosion at an explosives factory in Karesi district, Balikesir province, western Turkey. This was reported by CNN Turk.
Event details
The incident occurred on Tuesday, 24 December, in the production hall of the plant, where powder capsules were manufactured. According to Balikesir Governor Ismail Ustaoglu, the cause of the explosion remains unknown.
The powerful explosion caused the collapse of the building where the plant’s employees were staying. The plant employs about 1,000 people, but the number of people who could have been trapped in the rubble is currently being determined.
“A place inside the factory where powder capsules are made exploded. There were a lot of workers there,” said Baki Eser, the head of the Köteyli district.
Rescue operation
A large-scale rescue operation is underway at the site of the tragedy. Rescuers are working to clear the rubble to establish the exact number of victims and missing persons.
The provincial authorities urged residents to refrain from approaching the accident area in order not to interfere with the work of the services.
Investigation
Preliminary conclusions on the cause of the explosion have not yet been announced. Experts are investigating whether the explosion could have been caused by a technical malfunction or a violation of safety rules.
This tragedy was one of the largest industrial disasters in Turkey in recent years.
