Five military officials detained over Mangystau exercise deaths

September 25, 2026 at 07:05 PM2 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Five military officials have been detained in Aktau over the deaths of service members during a military exercise in the Mangystau Region, Deputy Interior Minister Sanzhar Adilov said on Sept. 25. The government commission also announced that a special fund for affected families has reached its target and fundraising has closed.

Key Facts

Five military officials were detained and placed in a temporary detention facility in Aktau, including the chief of staff and first deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Naval Forces.
The Military Investigative Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs is conducting the pretrial investigation into the deaths.
A special commission headed by Bekmurat Zhusipov will oversee transparent distribution of funds to families of the deceased and affected service members.
Defense Minister Dauren Kosanov said those responsible would face punishment under the law.

Detentions and Investigation

Deputy Interior Minister Sanzhar Adilov announced the detentions at a Sept. 25 government commission meeting in Aktau. The detained officials include the chief of staff and first deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Naval Forces, two commanders of military units, a marine infantry company commander, and a boat commander. Adilov said investigative and procedural measures are continuing, including necessary examinations. Investigators will provide a legal assessment of the actions of all persons involved and establish the full circle of suspects.

Support for Families

Chair of the government commission Kanat Bozumbayev said the state would fully meet its obligations to support the families of the deceased service members. Legally guaranteed payments will be made without delays, and responsible specialists will be assigned to each family for ongoing individual support. Funds raised through a special fund have reached the required level, and the fundraising campaign has been closed. A special commission headed by Bekmurat Zhusipov, a member of the Kazakhstan Khalyk Kenesi and chair of the Mangystau Regional Public Council, has been established to ensure transparent and targeted distribution of the funds.

Defense Ministry Accountability

Defense Minister Lieutenant General of Aviation Dauren Kosanov expressed condolences to the families of the deceased service members. Kosanov said those responsible would face punishment under the law. The government commission continues to oversee both the investigation and assistance to the affected families.