Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has expressed condolences to Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the people of Kazakhstan over the deaths of military personnel during exercises in the Caspian Sea. The head of state conveyed words of sympathy and support to the families and friends of the deceased, wishing them patience and resilience.

The tragedy occurred on September 24 during a combat training mission. Due to a sharp deterioration in weather and strong gusty winds, 17 servicemen were swept into the sea. Three were rescued.

On the morning of September 25, rescuers found the bodies of the last two missing servicemen — Sergeant Mansur Gumarov and Seaman Miras Turdybekuly. After that, the search and rescue operation was completed. In total, 12 servicemen died.

Kazakhstan's Prosecutor General's Office has opened a criminal case into the tragedy. The investigation is establishing the circumstances, including the conditions of the exercises and compliance with safety requirements.

September 25 has been declared a Day of National Mourning in Kazakhstan for the victims.

Source: podrobno.uz