A deadly explosion rocked an explosives plant in northwestern Turkiye on Tuesday, killing 12 employees and injuring five others. The blast occurred at 8:25 AM (0525 GMT) in a section of the plant in the Karesi district of Balikesir province. Initial reports confirmed the fatalities, with the injured taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Thankfully, their conditions were not serious.
The explosion caused significant damage, with shattered glass and debris visible at the site. Local authorities quickly responded, extinguishing the subsequent fire and confirming no remaining staff inside the factory. Governor Ismail Ustaoglu expressed his condolences and wished a speedy recovery to the wounded.
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While the cause of the explosion remains under investigation, local officials suggested “technical reasons” might be to blame, ruling out sabotage. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that authorities are still looking into the matter. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his sorrow over the incident and ordered a thorough investigation.
The plant, which produces munitions and explosives, has been the site of previous incidents, including a 2020 fireworks factory explosion and a 2023 military factory blast. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed condolences, showing solidarity with Turkiye during this tragic event.
