Criminal case opened following fatal explosion in Kokand

A criminal case has been initiated in connection with the explosion that occurred in a multi-storey residential building in Kokand, Fergana region, the Investigative Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs reported.

The Fergana Regional Department of Internal Affairs’ Investigation Division for the 2nd regional zone opened a criminal case under Article 259, Part 2(a) of the Criminal Code (violation of fire safety regulations). The case has been taken under supervision by the Investigative Department.

It was reported that Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Ramazon Ashrapov visited the scene of the incident in Kokand and coordinated the work of the investigative-operational group.

At the site, an investigative-operational team was formed under Ashrapov’s supervision, and responsible officers were given specific instructions. These included documenting the scene in accordance with the requirements of the Criminal Procedure Code, seizing items and objects relevant to the case, obtaining detailed witness statements, and carrying out other necessary investigative actions.

The explosion occurred on February 25 at 14:47 in a multi-storey residential building located in the Bostan neighborhood of Kokand, causing a fire. Several apartments sustained damage.

A resident born in 2007 suffered severe injuries after being trapped under a concrete slab and died at the scene. No information has been received regarding other injuries.

Upon receiving the report, officers from the internal affairs bodies and other law enforcement agencies arrived at the scene to extinguish the fire, determine the cause of the explosion, and conduct an inspection.