At least 17 workers have been killed and 12 others injured in a powerful explosion and fire at a steel factory near Izmir in western Türkiye. Authorities have also raised concerns that additional workers may be trapped under the debris.
According to international media reports, the explosion occurred at the Habas Demir Celik steel plant in the Aliaga district of Izmir.
Initial reports suggest that a crane carrying a replacement boiler suddenly collapsed, causing heavy equipment to fall into a furnace below. The impact triggered a massive explosion and fire inside the factory.
Footage from the scene showed flames engulfing parts of the facility, with thick clouds of smoke rising above the industrial site.
Eyewitnesses said the blast was so powerful that the ground shook. Some initially believed an earthquake had struck the area.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed the deaths and said an investigation had been launched into the incident. Rescue operations were also underway.
Health Minister Kemal Memisoglu said one severely injured worker died while receiving medical treatment, bringing the death toll to 17.
Izmir Governor Suleyman Elban expressed concern that some workers could still be trapped beneath the rubble. Local media reports also said at least five people had been arrested in connection with the incident.
Factory management said the explosion occurred during scheduled maintenance work on the plant’s electric arc furnace. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.
