An explosion at a steel factory in western Turkey killed at least 17 people and injured 12 others, according to authorities. The blast occurred during maintenance work and caused a fire at the Habas Demir Celik plant in Aliaga.
Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion shook the ground, with some initially mistaking it for an earthquake. The local governor stated the blast happened around midday when a crane carrying a replacement boiler collapsed, causing materials to fall into a furnace below. The company operating the plant said the accident occurred during scheduled maintenance on an electric arc furnace.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan initially reported 16 deaths, but the Health Minister later confirmed the toll had risen to 17 after one critically injured person died. Search and rescue operations continued, with some people believed to still be under the rubble. At least five people have been arrested, according to local media reports.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about workplace safety in Turkey, where industrial accidents remain a persistent issue.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
The outcome of the ongoing investigations and the response from the Turkish government and the company involved in the maintenance work.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.