Official report or statement from Turkish authorities

Explosion in Balıkesir's Karesi District Kills 12, Injures 5

Dec 24, 2024, 08:10 AM

An explosion at an explosives factory in the Karesi district of Balıkesir province in northwest Turkey at 08:25 local time has killed at least 12 people and injured five others. The explosion occurred at a facility producing explosives in the village of Kavaklı. Balıkesir Governor İsmail Ustaoğlu confirmed the casualties and stated that sabotage is not suspected. Health Minister Memişoğlu reported that five injured individuals are receiving treatment in hospitals. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya noted that the explosion caused significant damage, leading to a collapse in the building where explosive capsules are produced. Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç announced that an investigation has been launched and one person has been detained in connection with the incident. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and ordered an immediate investigation into the incident. The cause of the explosion is currently under investigation.