IZMIR — An explosion at the Habas iron and steel factory near Izmir killed at least 16 workers and injured 13 others on Monday during scheduled maintenance.
The blast occurred when a crane carrying a replacement boiler collapsed, sending materials into an electric arc furnace below. Footage showed a large fire and towering column of smoke. Eyewitnesses said the explosion shook the ground, with some believing an earthquake had struck.
Izmir Governor Süleyman Elban told media that authorities believe some individuals may still be under the rubble. Search and rescue operations continued at the site in the Aliaga district, a major port and shipbreaking hub.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan confirmed the deaths in a statement following a cabinet meeting Monday. He said two of the injured are in serious condition.
At least five people have been arrested in connection with the explosion, according to local media. The precise cause of the crane's collapse remains under investigation.
Workplace accidents are chronic in Turkey. The Turkish Health and Safety Labor Watch, an independent civil society organization, has documented ongoing concerns regarding industrial safety standards in the country.
