During exercises of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces on the coast of the Caspian Sea, servicemen ended up in the sea due to a sharp deterioration in meteorological conditions and strengthening wind. According to preliminary information, 19 servicemen were carried out to sea, of whom 9 died.
WHAT HAPPENED
According to the press service of the Ministry of Defence, the incident occurred on 24 September in the Mangystau Region while carrying out a training and combat task. During the exercises, servicemen were carried out to sea after a sharp deterioration in the weather and strengthening wind.
At present, the deaths of 9 servicemen have been officially confirmed. Another three have been rescued, one of whom has been hospitalised. The search for the others continues.
HOW THE SEARCH OPERATION IS BEING CONDUCTED
Forces and resources of rescue services were sent to the scene of the incident. Units of the Naval Forces, the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES), aviation and other relevant services are taking part in the search and rescue operation.
The Ministry of Defence promises to provide additional information on the progress of the operation and the condition of the servicemen as data comes in and is confirmed.
WHO IS INVESTIGATING THE INCIDENT
A criminal case has been opened and is being investigated into the deaths of servicemen during exercises in the Aktau Garrison. An operational and investigative group has been set up; employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), the MES and the prosecutor's office are working at the scene.
Investigators are carrying out a set of necessary actions to establish all the circumstances of what happened. Forensic examinations have been ordered, and the course of the investigation is under special supervision.
WHAT THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE REPORTED
In order to establish all the circumstances of the incident and coordinate the search and rescue efforts, a commission of the Ministry of Defence headed by Minister of Defence Lieutenant General of Aviation Dauren Kosanov set off for the scene.
The Ministry of Defence expressed its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased servicemen. The families of the deceased will be provided with the necessary assistance and support.