A large-scale search and rescue operation is continuing around the clock in the Caspian Sea off the Mangystau Region, where two servicemen who went missing after a sudden turn in the weather are being sought, infohub.kz reports.
According to the Ministry of Defense's official Telegram channel, the effort is being carried out on the instructions of a government commission headed by Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Qanat Bozumbaev.
Direct on-site command of the search and rescue operation is being exercised by Defense Minister, Lieutenant General of Aviation Dauren Kosanov. The operational headquarters set up for the effort includes representatives of the Ministry of Defense, the Border Service of the National Security Committee, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and local executive bodies of the Mangystau Region.
"The large-scale search and rescue operation involves 252 personnel, 34 pieces of special ground equipment, 37 military divers, 14 vessels and boats, and more than 20 aircraft, including 4 helicopters. The forces and assets of the agencies are conducting continuous patrolling and surveying of the water area, the coastal zone, and adjacent territories from the air," the Ministry of Defense said.
A criminal case has been opened into the incident, and a special commission is carrying out investigative measures to establish all the causes and circumstances of what happened.
The families of the deceased and the injured servicemen will receive all necessary material and psychological assistance.
Recall that during a combat training mission, 17 servicemen were swept out to the open sea by a sudden and sharp deterioration in weather conditions and gusty winds. As a result of prompt measures, three servicemen were rescued, and the search for two others continues. To deep regret, 12 servicemen died. Today Kazakhstan is observing a Day of National Mourning.