Fatality Confirmed in Komi Training Center Blast
A woman who sustained injuries in an explosion at the Center for Professional Training of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Syktyvkar, Komi Republic, on January 15, 2026, has tragically died in the hospital. The Ministry of Health of the Komi Republic confirmed on January 19 that despite extensive medical efforts, her injuries were 'incompatible with life'.
Details of the Incident
The explosion and subsequent fire occurred on the afternoon of January 15 at the training center located on Mendeleev Street in the Ezhvinsky district of Syktyvkar. According to preliminary investigations, instructor Vladimir Oparin activated an educational-imitation grenade during a scheduled training session with students. This action led to a blast and the ignition of flammable materials present in the room. Initial reports indicated 20 people were injured, a number that later increased to 24, with some sources recognizing over 30 individuals as victims. Approximately 200 people were evacuated from the building following the incident.
Investigation and Criminal Proceedings
Authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the incident, initially focusing on charges of negligence. Further inquiry revealed potential abuse of power. Instructor Vladimir Oparin has been placed under house arrest, suspected of exceeding official authority, which resulted in severe consequences. The head of the training center, Anton Dashevsky, was initially suspended, then detained, and subsequently arrested until March 15. He faces charges of abuse of power for allegedly permitting the training session to proceed in the assembly hall, despite being aware of ongoing repair work and the presence of highly flammable construction materials.
Medical Response and Victim Status
Following the explosion, 19 individuals were immediately hospitalized, with an additional five seeking medical attention later. On January 16, a team of 11 specialists from the Federal Center for Disaster Medicine of the Ministry of Health of Russia and the Ministry of Emergency Situations arrived in Syktyvkar to assess the condition of the injured. Several patients, including those in critical condition, were transferred to specialized federal clinics in Moscow. These include the Vishnevsky National Center for Surgery and the Main Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. As of January 19, 17 patients continue to receive treatment in Syktyvkar hospitals, while six others remain in serious condition in federal clinics in Moscow.
5 Comments
Africa
Holding those responsible accountable is crucial. No one is above the law.
Bermudez
It's good to see immediate arrests and investigations, suggesting accountability. However, the fact that such a dangerous situation was allowed to develop in a training center raises serious questions about systemic safety protocols.
ZmeeLove
How can an 'educational grenade' cause this? Sounds like a cover-up.
Muchacho
Authorities are acting swiftly. Justice will be served.
Coccinella
The official response to evacuate so many people and provide medical care was efficient under the circumstances. However, the presence of highly flammable materials during an active training session indicates a critical lapse in judgment and risk assessment.