Criminal Case Launched in Kazakhstan Following Death of Soldiers During Military Exercises – UPDATED

Law enforcement authorities in Kazakhstan have launched a criminal investigation following the death of service members during military exercises in the Caspian region.

This was reported by the press service of the General Prosecutor's Office of Kazakhstan.

"A criminal case has been opened and is being investigated regarding the death of military personnel during exercises in the Aktau garrison. An investigative-operational group has been established. Officers from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, and the Prosecutor's Office are at the scene," the statement reads.

It was noted that a comprehensive set of investigative actions is underway to ensure a thorough, full, and objective establishment of all the circumstances surrounding the incident. Necessary forensic examinations have been appointed.

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Nineteen Kazakh servicemen were swept out to sea during exercises in the Caspian Sea, and 9 people died.

This was reported by Sputnik Kazakhstan, citing the republic's Defense Ministry.

It is noted that three servicemen were rescued, including one who was hospitalized. A search is underway for the others.

"Forces and assets of the rescue services were immediately dispatched to the scene. Units of the Naval Forces, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, aviation and other relevant services are involved in the search and rescue operation," the statement from Kazakhstan's military department says.

A commission of the Defense Ministry headed by the head of the agency, Lieutenant General of Aviation Dauren Kosanov, urgently traveled to the scene of the incident.