TURKEY – Three killed in methane explosion at coal mine in northern Turkey

An investigation is under way following a methane gas explosion at a coal mine in Zonguldak province, northern Turkey, that killed three workers and injured five others on 23 October 2026.

The explosion occurred at a mine operated by Demir Madencilik A.Ş. in the Dereiçi area of Gelik, in the Kilimli district. According to the Zonguldak Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, two of the injured workers were in serious condition.

Eight workers were present at the mine when the explosion took place.

Prosecutors have appointed a team of experts to examine the incident and determine the circumstances surrounding the blast. Initial detention orders were issued for the mine operator and an occupational health and safety specialist as part of the investigation.

The inquiry remains ongoing. Authorities have yet to publish findings confirming how methane accumulated at the site or what caused it to ignite.

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