A powerful explosion rocked on explosives plant in northwestern Turkey on Tuesday, claiming the lives of 12 people and injuring five others, according to officials.
Shards of glass and metal are scattered around the plant, with ambulances on standby, reported AFP.
Local governor Ismail Ustaoglu confirmed that the blast took place in the Karesi district of Balikesir province, saying, “According to initial reports, 12 employees died, and four other were hospitalised with injuries.” He expressed condolences, saying, “I wish God’s mercy upon our deceased citizens and a speedy recovery to our wounded.”
The number of injured was later revised to five, and officials clarified that their injuries were not life-threatening. Authorities confirmed that no employees were inside the factory when the explosion occurred, and the fire had been extinguished.
The explosion, which took place at 8:25am (0525 GMT), caused part of the plant to collapse due to the force of the blast. Interior minister Ali Yerlikaya mentioned that the cause of the explosion was still unclear, saying, “We are trying to determine what caused it.”
Local officials suggested “technical reasons” as a potential cause, but further investigation is under way. Authorities have ruled out sabotage, and prosecutors have launched a full investigation into the incident.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his sadness over the tragedy, writing on the social platform X, “I am deeply saddened by the death of 12 brothers.” He added that he had been briefed by relevant institutions and instructed that “a comprehensive investigation be initiated immediately.”
The plant, located in northern Balikesir, produces munitions, explosives, and flares for both domestic and international markets. Witnesses described the aftermath of the explosion, saying the area looked “like a battlefield.” Security forces have secured the area, preventing civilians and the press from approaching, in case of a potential second blast.
Turkey has become a major exporter of defence products, particularly drones, with Erdogan a strong supporter of the industry. This tragedy comes after a series of explosions in the country, including a 2020 incident at a fireworks factory that killed seven people and injured 127, and a 2023 blast at a military explosives factory that claimed five lives.