Ghost drones: Unexplained crashes in Kazakhstan’s west prompt urgent safety tips
For the fifth time this year, an unidentified drone has crashed in western Kazakhstan. On June 19, residents of the Mangystau region discovered a remotely controlled aircraft.
The gray drone-like object was found in the Karakiya district, near the Bolashak railway station. Local police released minimal information, confirming only that no injuries were reported. An investigation into the incident is underway.
Previous drone crashes have all been recorded in the West Kazakhstan region:
- Feb. 18: A white aircraft, approximately 120 cm (about 4 feet) in length, was discovered in the village of Uyaly, Bokeiorda district.
- March 18: A black aircraft measuring about 3 meters was found near the village of Atameken, Taskala district.
- March 25: Another unidentified flying object reportedly crashed in the Zhanibek district. Yet another drone was recovered in the same district the next day.
Military observers claimed the aircraft involved in these incidents closely resemble Russia’s Geran-2 and Orlan-10 drones.
Iran’s Shahed or Russia’s Geran
Commenting on the March 18 incident, military observer Amangeldy Kurmet noted that one of the drone’s wings bore a yellow inscription reading «Geran.» He pointed out that Iran’s Shahed drones, which are supplied to Russia, are rebranded as «Geran.»
«The recently downed aircraft is an Iranian Shahed-136 drone; no doubt about it. All the characteristic features are there. It may have been slightly modified, so we must check its specifications. But the Geran is a Shahed-136 drone,» Kurmet said.
Experts have raised concerns about Kazakhstan’s ability to defend its airspace against such incursions, warning that the available defense budget may not be enough to establish an effective drone defense system.
The Ministry of Defense said in early June that the drones found in the West Kazakhstan region originated from Russia’s 926th launch test site near the border but did not provide further details.
Safety tips in case you encounter drone debris
Given that these are potentially military-grade or experimental drones, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and avoid direct contact.
Do not approach or touch: Unidentified drone fragments, especially military ones, could contain unexploded ordnance, hazardous materials or sensitive components. Do not attempt to touch, move or dismantle them.
Maintain a safe distance: Keep yourself and others, especially children and pets, well away from the fallen object – maintain a minimum 10-meter radius.
Report immediately: Contact local law enforcement or emergency services and provide them with the exact location of the debris.
