An explosion at an ammunition and explosives factory in northwestern Türkiye has killed at least 12 people and injured four others.

Ismail Ustaoglu, the governor of Balikesir, said the explosion occurred at 8:25 local time (5:25 GMT) in the capsule production area .

Interior Minister Ali Yelikaya said the cause was unclear but authorities had ruled out sabotage.

Video from the scene showed a fireball erupting from the factory, destroying some buildings and followed by billowing black smoke.

Further footage from the aftermath showed broken steel parts strewn across the surrounding area.

Witnesses told CNN Turk that the explosion shook the entire town of Köteyli.

Officials said numerous fire crews were sent to extinguish the blaze, and health and safety departments were also dispatched to the area.

“I wish God mercy on our dead citizens and a speedy recovery for our injured,” Ustaglu posted on social media.

Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunk said an investigation into the circumstances leading to the explosion had been launched.