Investigation Completed in Kostenko Mine Disaster that Killed 46 Miners

Prosecutor General Berik Asylov announced the completion of the investigation into the tragedy at the Kostenko mine, where 46 miners died in explosions, Orda.kz reports.

The October 28, 2023 disaster began with a methane explosion at 700 meters depth, triggering a chain reaction. 33 miners died from injuries and 13 from carbon monoxide poisoning, with 28 others injured.

The case against 10 defendants has been referred to court under the article on violation of safety regulations during mining operations (Part 3 of Article 277 of the Criminal Code), wrote Asylov on X.

The investigation found poor management, safety violations, and high gas levels caused the incident.

Those charged include the mine director, chief engineer, and heads of ventilation and conveyor transport. Nine are in custody; one is under travel restrictions.

The case includes 74 victims - deceased miners' relatives and survivors - and spans over 120 volumes of materials.

Original Author: Ruslan Loginov