Criminal Proceedings Initiated Following Explosion at ‘Surmalu’

In connection with the explosion that occurred today at the Surmalu shopping center, a criminal case has been initiated upon the order of the acting prosecutor of Yerevan, based on Article 357, Part 2 (Violation of fire safety rules or requirements, resulting in death or other serious consequences due to negligence) and Article 358, Part 2 (Violation of rules or requirements for the storage, accounting, transportation, delivery, or use of flammable or combustible materials, resulting in death or other serious consequences due to negligence) of the RA Criminal Code.

A investigative team has been formed, and measures are being taken to clarify the circumstances of the incident and the full range of victims. As of now, the causes of the explosion are still unclear, and all possible hypotheses will be subject to investigation.

According to currently available officially confirmed data, three deaths have been recorded as a result of the explosion, and reports from various medical centers in the capital indicate that 36 individuals have sustained injuries of varying degrees, 11 of whom were minors.

Intensive firefighting and search-and-rescue operations continue at the scene. After the completion of these efforts, as well as security measures, necessary investigative actions will be carried out on-site.

The RA Prosecutor's Office, along with the pre-trial investigative body, will regularly provide information regarding the current status of the investigation.