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FACTBOX: What to know about explosion at Russia’s military unit

According to Governor Alexander Avdeyev, first responders are working at the scene of the explosion in the region’s Kirzhach District

© Yury Smityuk/TASS

MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. A fire at a Russian military unit set off a detonation of ammunition, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

A commission has been set up to determine the causes of the incident that took place in the Vladimir Region east of Moscow.

According to Governor Alexander Avdeyev, first responders are working at the scene of the explosion in the region’s Kirzhach District.

TASS has put together key facts about the incident.

Circumstances of the explosion

- The Russian Defense Ministry said that a fire started at a military unit in the Vladimir Region, causing a detonation of ammunition stored in a warehouse.

- Crews from the military unit and the Emergency Situations Ministry have been called in to fight the flames.

- According to preliminary reports, there were no casualties.

- Governor Alexander Avdeyev said first responders are working at the scene of the incident, with all available emergency management forces engaged in the response.

Investigation

- Defense Minister Andrey Belousov ordered setting up a commission to investigate the incident and bring the culprits to justice.

- The preliminary cause of the fire is a violation of safety requirements while handling explosive materials.

Evacuation

- Evacuations are underway from the Barsovo and Mirny settlements.

- Barsovo has a population of more than 700.

- Volunteers are getting ready to provide assistance to evacuated residents.

- An emergency shelter at a nearby village has already taken in about 100 people, including the elderly and children.

Government reaction

- A state of emergency has been declared in the Kirzhach District.

- Regional prosecutors are taking measures to support the rights of people living in the affected area.

- A hotline has been set up for calls related to the emergency.

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