Death Toll from Earthquake in Turkey Reaches 48,000; Over 115,000 Injured

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has announced that the death toll from a series of powerful earthquakes in Turkey has reached 48,000, with more than 115,000 people injured.

“The number of casualties has reached 48,000, and more than 115,000 have been injured. 50,000 buildings have been destroyed. No other country can respond as quickly to such a large-scale disaster,” Erdogan said during a speech in the heavily affected Hatay province.

It is to be recalled that residents of southeastern Turkey felt the first tremors on the night of February 6. According to officials, the magnitude of the disaster is comparable to the explosion of 500 atomic bombs. The police have identified over 560 developers and contractors who violated regulations during the construction of buildings.