September 25 declared a National Day of Mourning in Kazakhstan

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has declared September 25, 2026, a national day of mourningfollowing the deaths of military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty in the Mangystau region, El.kz reports, citing the Akorda.

Earlier that day, during a Navy exercise on the Caspian Sea coast, a group of military personnel was swept into the sea following a sudden deterioration in weather conditions and strengthening winds.

According to the latest official data, 19 military personnel were swept into the sea. 12 people died, three were rescued and one of those rescued was hospitalised. The search and rescue operation is ongoing.

A criminal investigation has been launched into the incident. A special operational-investigative task force has been established to investigate the circumstances of the tragedy.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his condolences to the families and relatives of the deceased military personnel.