At least sixteen individuals lost their lives and thirteen others were injured following a catastrophic explosion at the Habas Demir Celik plant, one of Turkey's foremost iron and steel producers, situated near Izmir. The incident occurred on Monday around midday, as a crane carrying a replacement boiler collapsed, causing materials to plummet into the furnace beneath. Eyewitnesses reported feeling the ground shake, initially mistaking the explosion for an earthquake. The local governor confirmed that some individuals may still be trapped under the debris. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan confirmed the fatalities and initiated investigations while rescue operations continued. Five suspects have been apprehended according to reports from BBC News's Turkish service. The Habas plant, located in Aliaga district - a major port and Turkey's primary shipbreaking hub – is currently undergoing maintenance work on one of its electric arc furnaces as per the company's statement.