Tengrinews.kz - A criminal case has been initiated following the collapse of the mine at the Zhomart mine in the Zhanaarka district of Ulytau Region, where seven people died.
An official statement on this was issued by the regional police department.
"A case has been initiated under Article 277, Part 3 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan 'Violation of safety regulations in mining or construction work'," the statement says.
It is noted that operational-investigative groups from the department are working at the scene.
"All necessary investigative actions are currently being conducted," the department added.
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On Monday, February 17, a mine collapse occurred at the Zhomart mine in the Zhanaarka district of Ulytau Region, which is operated by Kazakhmys Corporation, leaving seven workers trapped.
Following an order from Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, a special commission was established to investigate the causes of the collapse and provide assistance to those affected. The commission is led by Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev.
Earlier, the Ministry of Emergency Situations reported that rescue teams had found the bodies of six workers, while the search for the seventh was ongoing. Later, the ministry confirmed that the body of the last victim had been recovered. It was reported that the remains of all seven miners were brought to the surface and handed over to law enforcement for forensic examination.
According to Kazakhmys' press service, preliminary data suggests that a natural gas explosion caused the accident at the Zhomart mine.
The corporation assured that the families of those who died at the Zhomart mine would receive the necessary assistance as provided by the collective agreement. For social and financial support, including compensation for moral damage, the families will receive a payment of ten times the employee's average annual salary, as well as more than 2 million tenge for funeral arrangements. Additionally, monthly payments for the loss of the breadwinner, coverage for children’s education, the repayment of loans and debts of the deceased workers, and other forms of assistance will be provided upon the request of family members.
The Ulytau region akimat (local administration) stated that it would also provide all necessary psychological and social support to the families and loved ones of the deceased workers.
Also, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed condolences over the deaths of miners in the Ulytau region.