Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced on Monday that the death toll from the explosion at an ammunition factory in Balıkesir has been confirmed as 11, not 12 as initially reported.

The explosion occurred at 08:20 in the section of the factory responsible for capsule production. Minister Yerlikaya, accompanied by Minister of National Defence Yaşar Güler and Minister of Labour and Social Security Vedat Işıkhan, addressed the media at the scene of the tragedy.

“Unfortunately, 11 of our brothers and sisters working on the production line lost their lives—8 women and 3 men,” Yerlikaya stated. He clarified the initial discrepancy in the reported death toll, explaining that the severe impact of the explosion led to challenges in confirming the body count. “Following examinations by the Forensic Medicine Institute, it was determined that the number of fatalities is 11, not 12 as initially announced.”

In addition to the fatalities, seven individuals were injured in the explosion. Minister Yerlikaya reassured the public that all injured individuals are in stable condition and receiving medical care.

Investigation Underway, No Indication of Sabotage

Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. Minister Yerlikaya dismissed any possibility of sabotage, emphasizing the thoroughness of the ongoing inquiry.

“A seven-person expert committee has been formed to assess the situation and uncover the cause of the incident,” he said.

The explosion has caused deep sorrow throughout the country, with officials and citizens mourning the lives lost in the tragedy. Further updates on the investigation and safety measures at the facility are expected in the coming days.

This incident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols in high-risk industrial facilities, and officials have pledged to take all necessary actions to prevent similar accidents in the future. (ILKHA)