A major accident during a North Korean warship launch has led to the arrest of three top officials from the country’s Chongjin shipyard, state media reported on Sunday.
During the launch of a new 5,000-ton warship on Wednesday, the lower part of the ship broke apart, causing the vessel to lose balance. This unexpected failure triggered an internal investigation and immediate backlash from top leadership.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un reportedly called the incident a “criminal act” and ordered strict action. The three arrested include the shipyard’s chief engineer, the head of construction, and an administrative manager.
All of them are now under custody and accused of being directly responsible for the failed launch, according to KCNA, North Korea‘s official news agency.
The warship had been fully constructed at the Chongjin Shipyard and was expected to showcase the regime’s growing naval power. Instead, the mishap has raised serious concerns over quality control and internal accountability.