An explosion in an ammunition and explosives factory in northwestern Türkiye killed at least 12 people and injured four others.
The governor of the city of Balikesir, Ismail Ustaoglu, said that the explosion occurred at 8:25 local time (5:25 GMT) in the capsule production department.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said the reason was not yet clear, but the authorities ruled out an act of sabotage.
Videos from the scene showed a fireball erupting from the factory, destroying part of the building, followed by plumes of dark smoke.
Other footage from the aftermath shows mangled bits of steel scattered in the surrounding area.
Witnesses told CNN Turkey that the explosion caused tremors throughout the town of Kuteli.
The officials added that several firefighting teams were sent to deal with the fire, and health and security units were also sent to the area.
“I wish God’s mercy on our deceased citizens and a speedy recovery for our injured,” Ustaoglu said in a post on social media.
Justice Minister Yilmaz Tonk said that an investigation had been opened into the circumstances that led to the explosion.
