Kazakhstan's Tokayev dismisses defense minister after 14 troops die in exercise
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has removed Defence Minister Dauren Kosanov three days after a training tragedy on the Caspian Sea coast killed 14 servicemen. Aidos Mirzakhmetov has been named as the new minister.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has dismissed Defence Minister Dauren Kosanov, three days after a deadly incident during military exercises left 14 servicemen dead. The news was reported by Kazakhstan Today, citing the presidential administration.
Kosanov had been reappointed as defence minister only on September 3, meaning he held the post for less than a month before his dismissal.
What happened during the exercise
On September 24, Kazakhstan's Naval Forces were carrying out a training and combat task off the coast of the Mangystau region. A sudden deterioration in weather and strong winds swept 17 servicemen out to open sea. Three were rescued, but 14 died.
A criminal case has been opened over the deaths. Among those detained are the chief of staff, the first deputy commander of the Naval Forces, two military unit commanders, and the commanders of a marine infantry company and a patrol boat.
Tokayev has appointed Aidos Mirzakhmetov as the new defence minister.
