Caspian Sea Tragedy: 14 Servicemen Lose Their Lives

Fourteen Kazakh servicemen have died in a tragedy in the Caspian Sea. Live from Aktau, where the search operation has been completed, is a 24KZ correspondent.

Tamara Stepanova, correspondent:

– Just a couple of hours ago, the Ministry of Defence announced the completion of the search and rescue operation. At around 9:15 a.m., the bodies of two servicemen were found – Sergeant Mansur Gumarov and sailor Miras Turdybekuly. Both were 19 years old.

The search operation continued throughout the night. Today, the Ministry of Defence reported that 252 personnel, 34 units of specialized ground equipment, 37 military divers, 14 vessels and boats, and more than 20 aircraft, including four helicopters, were involved in the operation.

A nationwide day of mourning has been declared in Kazakhstan today. National flags have been lowered to half-mast across the country. Cultural and public events have been cancelled in Aktau, including the celebrations planned for City Day

The families of the deceased servicemen will receive the necessary financial and psychological support from the state.