A sea mine explosion near Batumi on the Black Sea coast prompted a formal investigation by the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs. The case was opened under article 229 of the Georgian Criminal Code, with the authorities clarifying that the incident involved an explosive device and is being treated as a criminal matter. Local and national officials stressed that the inquiry is ongoing and seeks to determine all contributing factors behind the blast.
Official sources from the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs summarized the scene at the coast where responders arrived to secure the area. Law enforcement officers, engineers, and firefighters were dispatched to the location to conduct a rapid assessment, establish a safe perimeter, and gather evidence for the investigative file. The ministry reported that no injuries or fatalities occurred as a result of the blast, noting that the swift response helped prevent a potentially more dangerous outcome.
Earlier reports described the event as taking place off the Batumi shoreline, with a sea mine believed to have been brought in by currents. The mine reportedly detonated in waters approximately 25 meters from the coast, according to preliminary details shared by Georgian authorities. At the time of the incident, investigation teams were on the scene to document conditions, collect forensic material, and interview maritime and shore personnel who witnessed the event. The ongoing work aims to map the sequence of events leading up to the explosion and assess any environmental impact on the marine area.
In a related context for regional maritime safety, a separate incident involving a floating mine was reported near the Turkish coast earlier in November 2022. A fishing vessel encountered a floating mine along the European side of Turkey, near the Kırklareli province. That event underscored the broader risks associated with maritime mines and the importance of vigilant monitoring, rapid response capabilities, and interagency cooperation to minimize harm to people and the coastline.
Throughout the Batumi investigation, authorities have emphasized adherence to safety protocols and the rule of law. The investigative process will continue to determine whether there were deliberate actions, external interference, or other factors that could explain the presence of the explosive device. As more information becomes available, the ministry plans to disclose verified updates while maintaining thorough, methodical inquiry practices that prioritize public safety and accountability.
The public is advised to follow official statements from Georgian security agencies for verified developments. Should further details emerge about the origins of the mine, the sequence of events, or any persons of interest, these will be communicated through official channels and corroborated by investigative findings. Ongoing coordination among police, emergency services, and civilian authorities remains essential to ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the incident and preventing similar hazards in the future.