The Situation Remains Complex: Heavy Equipment Involved, Says Director of Emergency Service

The operational situation remains complex following the explosion at the Surmalu shopping center. As of now, there is one confirmed death and several injured individuals, who have been retrieved from the rubble and transported to hospitals.

This was reported by Armen Gasparyan, the Director of the Emergency Situations Service, in a conversation with reporters at the scene.

According to him, firefighting and search-and-rescue operations are ongoing. Heavy machinery has also been mobilized to clear and remove debris.

"Assistance to the victims continues. Currently, around 45 injured individuals have been transported to hospitals and have sought medical help," said Armen Gasparyan.

Regarding the causes of the explosion, the Director of the Emergency Service stated that an investigation will be conducted, and the investigation and preliminary examination bodies will provide answers.