Kazakhstan Opens Criminal Probe Into Deaths of Nine Servicemen in Mangystau Drills

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Kazakhstan's Prosecutor General's Office has opened a criminal investigation into the deaths of nine servicemen during naval exercises in the Aktau garrison on September 24. An investigative task force has been formed, with Interior Ministry, Emergencies Ministry, and prosecutor's office personnel working at the scene. The investigation is under special oversight while forensic examinations are being conducted.
Key Facts
- Nine servicemen died during naval exercises in the Aktau garrison in Mangystau region on September 24.
- The Prosecutor General's Office has opened and is investigating a criminal case over the deaths.
- An investigative task force has been formed, with Interior Ministry, Emergencies Ministry, and prosecutor's office personnel at the scene.
- Preliminary information indicates 19 servicemen were swept into the sea due to sudden worsening weather and strengthening wind.
- Three servicemen were rescued, one of whom was hospitalized; search operations continue for the remaining personnel.
Criminal Investigation
The Prosecutor General's Office of Kazakhstan announced the opening of a criminal case into the deaths of servicemen during exercises in the Aktau garrison. An operational investigative group has been created to establish the circumstances of the incident. Employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, and the prosecutor's office are working at the scene. A complex of investigative actions is being conducted to ensure a comprehensive, complete, and objective determination of all circumstances. Necessary forensic examinations have been appointed, and the course of the investigation is under special control.
Incident Details
On September 24, during exercises of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan in Mangystau region, nine servicemen died. Preliminary information indicates that due to a sharp deterioration in weather conditions and strengthening wind, 19 servicemen were swept into the sea. Three servicemen were rescued, one of whom was hospitalized. Search operations are ongoing for the remaining servicemen.