Explosion in Derince port

Photo: Tahir Turan Eroğlu / AA

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An explosion occurred at the Grain Board of Turkey (TMO) silo in the Derince district of Kocaeli.

At around 14:40 an explosion took place at the TMO Kocaeli Directorate port silo in the coastal area of the district, for reasons yet to be determined. 

The explosion resulted in a heavy smoke and dust cloud, prompting the dispatch of firefighting, medical, and police teams to the area.

The sound of the explosion was heard from various parts of the İzmit Gulf.

Governor Seddar Yavuz stated that an explosion had occurred at the TMO silos and said, "We have directed all search and rescue teams. There is information about those injured."

Derince Mayor Zeki Aygün also commented, "We thought it was an earthquake, but then we saw that the TMO silo had exploded. We are busy identifying the injured and transporting them to the hospital. We don't have clear information yet. We have sent 3-4 injured colleagues to the hospital."

Aygün continued, "Of course, it's a technical incident, and it's not possible for us to explain or understand the details. After our colleagues investigate, they will provide information. It was a grain silo. There is no fire; the explosion occurred due to compression, but it was a strong explosion. I felt it even from where I was sitting in the municipal building. We hope that there haven't been any fatalities, this is what matters to us."

Photo: İbrahim Aktaş / AA

(HA/PE)