President Dr Mohamed Muizzu sent a message of condolence to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan following a devastating explosion at a munitions factory in Turkey's Balikesir Province that claimed twelve lives and left several others wounded.

In his message of solidarity, President Dr Muizzu conveyed the Maldivian people's support for those affected by the tragedy and wished for the swift recovery of the injured. He emphasised that the Government and people of Maldives stand with Turkey during this difficult time, particularly acknowledging the bereaved families who lost their loved ones in this industrial accident.

The blast occurred at a state-owned ammunition manufacturing facility on December 24, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting an immediate emergency response.

Turkey's Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc announced that the government has launched a comprehensive investigation, assembling a specialised team of chemical and mechanical engineers, workplace safety specialists, and geophysical experts to determine the root cause of the explosion.