Investigation admits possibility of new arrests in the Caspian tragedy case

Tengrinews.kz — Investigators have not ruled out further arrests in the case involving the deaths of a group of servicemen in the Mangistau region, citing the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

"The investigation is ongoing to identify an additional circle of individuals subject to detention," the Ministry of Internal Affairs stated.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs previously reported the detention of five responsible officials within the Ministry of Defense system. Among them are the Chief of Staff and First Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Naval Forces, two military unit commanders, as well as marine company and patrol boat commanders. All have been named as suspects and placed in a temporary detention facility in Aktau.
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the investigation is being conducted into criminal offenses related to negligence in the line of duty and violations of navigation rules that resulted in severe consequences. The actions of all suspects will be subject to a legal assessment. The progress of the investigation is under the special supervision of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Prosecutor General's Office.
High-ranking officials detained in Caspian tragedy case
Tragedy on the Caspian Sea
On September 24, during naval exercises in the Mangistau Region, several servicemen were swept out into the Caspian Sea. They were performing training and combat missions on the Caspian coast when weather conditions suddenly deteriorated and winds intensified.
Initial reports stated that 19 servicemen were swept out to sea. The Mangistau Region Akimat later clarified the figure to 17 people.
It was previously reported that 12 people have died three people were rescued. One of the survivors is currently hospitalized.
A government commission has been created to investigate the tragedy. It is headed by Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev. The commission is to establish the causes of the tragedy and assist the families of the deceased.
A pre-trial investigation has been launched into the deaths of the servicemen, the Prosecutor General’s Office reported. Investigators are establishing all the circumstances of what happened.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed deep condolences to the families and loved ones of the servicemen who died. On September 25, the Head of State declared a day of mourning.
The Ministry of Defense has announced the conclusion of the search operation in the Caspian Sea waters.