Tokayev dismisses Defense Minister Kosanov after 14 soldiers die in Caspian Sea drills

September 27, 2026 at 09:35 AM2 min

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Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev dismissed Defense Minister Dauren Kosanov on September 27, three days after 14 servicemen died during naval exercises in the Caspian Sea. The dismissal follows public calls for accountability and the arrest of five military officers on negligence charges. Tokayev also ordered a comprehensive inspection of the Defense Ministry, with initial results due within seven days.

Key Facts

President Tokayev signed a decree on September 27 dismissing Dauren Kosanov from the post of Defense Minister.
The tragedy occurred on September 24 during naval exercises in the Mangystau region, when 17 servicemen were swept into the sea; 14 died and 3 were rescued.
Five military officers, including the chief of staff and first deputy commander of the Navy, were detained on suspicion of negligence.
Tokayev declared September 25 a day of national mourning.
A government commission led by Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev is investigating the incident, and more than 30 people have been questioned.

Dismissal Decree

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree on September 27, 2026, releasing Dauren Kosanov from the post of Minister of Defense of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The decree was announced by the presidential press service, Akorda. Kosanov had served as defense minister since June 8, 2025, and was reappointed on September 3, 2026. The dismissal came three days after the deaths of 14 servicemen during military exercises in the Caspian Sea.

Caspian Sea Tragedy

On September 24, during the 'Khazar Korgany — 2026' exercises in the Mangystau region, 17 servicemen were swept into the open sea due to a sudden deterioration in weather and strong winds. Fourteen servicemen died, and three were rescued; one survivor was hospitalized in stable but serious condition. The incident occurred during the disembarkation of personnel from the boat 'Kaisar'. President Tokayev declared September 25 a day of national mourning.

Investigation and Detentions

Five military officers were detained on suspicion of negligence, including the chief of staff and first deputy commander of the Navy, two unit commanders, a marine company commander, and a boat commander. The criminal case is being investigated under articles related to improper performance of military duties and violation of navigation rules resulting in grave consequences. A government commission led by Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev is investigating the causes and circumstances of the incident. More than 30 people have been questioned in the investigation, and the circle of suspects has been determined. Tokayev also ordered a comprehensive inspection of the Defense Ministry, including financial and logistical aspects, with initial results due within seven days.