The Daily Star Ireland
A powerful explosion occurred at an explosives plant in northwestern Turkey, resulting in the deaths of 12 individuals and injuring four others, according to officials. The blast, which took place in the Karesi district of Balikesir province, caused significant damage, scattering glass and metal debris around the plant’s vicinity. Ambulances were present at the scene.
Local governor Ismail Ustaoglu reported that 12 employees died from the explosion, and four others were hospitalized with non-critical injuries. Authorities confirmed that there were no remaining staff inside the factory after the explosion and that the fire was successfully extinguished.
The explosion happened at 8:25 a.m. local time in a section of the plant that collapsed due to the blast’s force. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated that the cause of the explosion was still under investigation, with officials suggesting technical reasons but ruling out sabotage. Prosecutors have launched a thorough investigation into the incident.
The plant, located in northern Balikesir, manufactures munitions, explosives, and flares for both domestic and international markets. Witnesses described the site as resembling a battlefield, with the bodies of the deceased being transported to the morgue. Security forces implemented measures to prevent any secondary explosions, restricting access to the area for civilians and the media.
Turkey has significantly developed its defense industry, becoming a major exporter, particularly of drones. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is a prominent supporter of this sector. Previous incidents in the country include a 2020 explosion at a fireworks factory that killed seven people and injured 127, and a 2023 blast at a military explosives factory near Ankara that resulted in five fatalities.
