Search Continues at Sorbulaq Lake After Military Helicopter Disappearance
Photo: MoD RK
On July 25, a military helicopter vanished from radar in Jambyl Region. The next day, an oil slick and debris believed to be from the missing aircraft were found on the surface of Sorbulaq Lake in the Almaty Region.
The search operation is ongoing, Orda.kz reports.
Earlier in the day, Orda.kz published exclusive footage sent to its editorial bot, reportedly from the crash site. Later in the evening, the Ministry of Defense released official visuals from the rescue operation.


Starting early on July 28, rescuers used drones to scan the lake’s surface and shoreline. To accelerate the effort, the southern part of the reservoir was combed by both water and land teams.
For a more detailed search, the lake has been divided into sectors. Thirteen vessels are deployed, along with specialized equipment to inspect the lakebed. The operation is being conducted under challenging hydrographic conditions, the statement reads.
Additional teams and equipment from Qonayev, Aqtau, and other regions joined the search during the day. A military transport aircraft delivered diving gear, sonar, a motorboat, and other tools to access hard-to-reach areas.
Soldiers from five more military units have been mobilized for round-the-clock efforts. Identification of the recovered fragments is underway.
Original Author: Raushan Korzhumbekova
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