Head of State thanks global leaders for pouring in condolences over Karaganda tragedy

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his gratitude to the heads of foreign states and compatriots for pouring in condolences and support on the occasion of the fatal tragedy that shocked Karaganda region, Kazinform News Agency cites the Akorda press service. 

In a Facebook post, President Tokayev thanked the heads of state, public figures, citizens who extended their condolences, words of support and sympathy to the families of deceased miners and showed solidarity.

The blast rocked the Kostenko mine owned by ArcelorMittal Temirtau in Karaganda region on October 28. At the moment of the blast, 252 miners were in the mine. The explosion reportedly killed 33 miners. 13 people are still missing, 20 more were rushed to a hospital.

The Prosecutor General’s Office has launched a criminal investigation into the incident. The rescuers are working at the scene of the incident.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is currently in Karaganda region. He has already expressed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the miners and ordered to halt investment cooperation with ArcelorMittal Temirtau.

At the instruction of the Head of State, the commission appointed Vadim Bassin, the first deputy akim (governor) of Karaganda region, as the interim director general of JSC ArcelorMittal Temirtau.

Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov was named as the head of the governmental commission to determine the causes and mitigate the consequences of the blast and fire in the Kostenko mine.

President Tokayev declared a national day of mourning on Sunday, October 29.

Presidents of Russia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, France, Uzbekistan as well as the foreign ministry of Türkiye expressed their condolences on the occasion of the deadly tragedy in Karaganda region.