Tragic Deaths of Three Swimmers by Sea Mines Off Odesa Coast

Local officials confirmed that three swimmers died due to explosive devices in a restricted swimming zone near Odesa's beaches, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in the Black Sea.

Three swimmers tragically lost their lives after encountering sea mines while swimming near Odesa, Ukrainian media reported. A regional official stated that the victims, a man and a woman, were killed by "explosive devices" at beaches near Zatoka, where swimming is officially banned. This area of the Black Sea has been a favored destination for holidaymakers; however, many beaches have been deemed perilous since the escalation of conflict following Russia's full-scale invasion.

Local authorities have repeatedly urged vacationers to avoid swimming in restricted waters for safety. Witnesses reported that the explosions occurred around 11:30 local time on Sunday, in the water between Karolino-Buhaz and Zatoka. "All of them have been killed by explosive devices while swimming in areas prohibited for recreation," confirmed Oleh Kiper, the regional governor. “This once again proves that being in unchecked waters is fatally dangerous.”

Although law enforcement is still working to identify the victims, they expressed grave concerns about the safety of swimmers and the risks associated with neglecting safety guidelines. "It has been previously determined that three vacationers – a woman and two men – died while swimming as a result of two explosions of unknown objects. The identities of the deceased are being established," a police report stated.

In the existing dialogue regarding swimming safety, authorities noted that there are 32 designated safe swimming areas along the coast, with 30 of those located specifically within Odesa. This incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by dislodged mines and unexploded ordnance in the region.