17 workers killed in Turkey steel factory explosion
An explosion at the Habas Demir Celik plant in Izmir province has left 17 dead and 12 injured.
At least 17 workers died and 12 others were injured following an explosion at the Habas Demir Celik steel plant in the Aliaga district of Izmir on Monday, according to reports by the Times of India, Hindustan Times and BBC News.
The blast occurred around midday during scheduled maintenance work on an electric arc furnace. Initial findings suggest a ceiling crane carrying a replacement boiler snapped and fell into a furnace during the liquid steel casting process.
Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu stated that the death toll rose to 17 after a worker in critical condition died. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan initially confirmed 16 deaths following a cabinet meeting but noted that investigations are currently underway.
Izmir Governor Süleyman Elban said that some individuals might still be trapped beneath the debris as search and rescue teams continue their operations. Eyewitnesses described the force of the blast as being strong enough to shake the ground.
Local media reports cited by the BBC indicate that at least five people have been arrested in connection with the incident. The DEM party has called for those responsible to be brought to justice, alleging negligence.
The Habas plant is operated by one of Turkey's leading steel producers in the Aliaga port district. The company declined to answer questions regarding the accident.