BREAKING,
Officials say four people were injured in the explosion at a munitions factory in Balikesir province.
An explosion has ripped through an explosives factory in northwest Turkiye, killing 12 people and injuring four, according to officials.
An investigation was launched following the powerful explosion on Tuesday, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said, announcing the death toll.
The explosion occurred at the factory in the village of Kavakli in Balikesir province. Footage broadcast on local media showed shards of glass and metal scattered outside the plant, where ambulances stood by.
“According to initial reports, 12 employees died and four were taken to hospital with injuries as a result of the explosion,” Balikesir Governor Ismail Ustaoglu said.
“I wish God’s mercy upon our deceased citizens and a speedy recovery to our wounded,” he added.
Officials said the wounded were not in a serious condition.
Yerlikaya said the cause was not immediately known and authorities ruled out sabotage. “We are trying to find out what caused it,” he said.
The explosion took place at 8:25am (05:25 GMT) at a section of the plant, which local officials said collapsed by the impact.
Fire crews were sent to control the blaze and health and security units were dispatched to the area, the government’s communication directorate said.
The plant makes munitions, explosives and flares for domestic and international markets.
Turkiye has become a leading defence exporter, particularly of drones, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan a strong supporter of the industry.
This is a breaking story. More to come…
Source
:
Al Jazeera and news agencies