Turkish media reported on Saturday that authorities have brought under control a wildfire that broke out on agricultural land, resulting in the deaths of 12 people and injuries to 78 others in an area near Turkey’s borders with Syria and Iraq.
According to the local governor’s office, the fire began late Thursday due to the burning of straw and spread rapidly due to strong winds.
Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç announced on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday that authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
NTV television and other media outlets reported that the fire is now under control and that efforts are underway to cool down the burnt areas. The channel also reported a large number of animals perished after being trapped by the fire.
Late Friday evening, Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca stated that the treatment of the injured is ongoing, with some patients in critical condition.
“We continue to treat and monitor five of the injured. Three of our five patients, who are receiving treatment in Diyarbakır, are breathing through tubes,” Koca said on X.
