Military personnel killed: September 25 declared a national day of mourning in Kazakhstan
During military exercises in the Mangistau region, 19 servicemen were swept away by water, and 12 of them died.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has declared September 25 a national day of mourning in the country in connection with the deaths of servicemen during military exercises in the Mangystau region. This was announced by the President's press service.
According to the head of state's directive, a national day of mourning will be held in the Republic of Kazakhstan on September 25, 2026, due to the deaths of servicemen while performing their military duty.
On September 24, exercises of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan were being held in the Mangystau region. Nineteen servicemen performing a combat training assignment on the Caspian Sea coast were swept away by water currents due to strong winds and a sharp deterioration in weather conditions.
The Ministry of Defense of Kazakhstan initially reported that nine servicemen had died and three had been rescued. According to subsequent information, the death toll reached 12.
The Prosecutor General's Office of Kazakhstan stated that a criminal case has been initiated and investigative actions are being carried out regarding the incident. A government commission has also been established to determine the causes of the tragedy. Deputy Prime Minister Qanat Bozumbayev has traveled to the scene of the incident.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed condolences to the families of the deceased servicemen and instructed that the causes of the tragedy be thoroughly investigated.
In connection with the incident, all festive events planned as part of "City Day" in the city of Aktau have also been canceled.
