A tragic fire in a two-story private house in the village of Algabas, Jeti­say District, in Kazakhstan’s Turkistan Region has claimed the lives of 12 people, including nine children, authorities said.

The fire broke out early on November 18. Emergency teams arriving at the scene found the building fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters later discovered 12 bodies inside.

Three other individuals — two adults and a child — were evacuated in an unconscious state and transported to hospital.

According to the regional healthcare department, the three survivors remain in intensive care.

Their condition is described as serious but stable, and they are receiving round-the-clock medical supervision.

A team of psychologists has also been dispatched to support the families affected by the tragedy.

President Qasym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his condolences to the bereaved families, instructing the regional akimat (local government) and other agencies to provide all necessary assistance.

A government commission has been formed — chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev — to investigate the cause of the blaze.

Authorities have opened a criminal case under charges of “violation of fire safety requirements.”

Officials say two families were in the house at the time: parents and their children. The roof of the building reportedly collapsed during the fire.

The commission will also work on providing medical, psychological, and social support for survivors and relatives of those who died. (ILKHA)