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The Investigative Committee launches a probe on the death of 18 people as a result of methyl alcohol poisoning in the Sverdlovsk region

The investigative authorities of the Sverdlovsk Regional Investigative Department of the Investigative Committee of Russia have launched and are investigating a probe under Part 3 of Article 238 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (sale of goods and products that do not meet the safety requirements of life or health of consumers, resulting in death of two or more persons by negligence). The punishment for this crime is up to 10 years imprisonment.

According to the investigation, from 7 to 14 October 2021 several persons in the Chkalovsky district of Ekaterinburg sold alcoholic liquids (methyl alcohol) which were dangerous to life and health of consumers to citizens. As a result of consumption of the liquid, 18 people died.

On instructions from the head of the Sverdlovsk Regional Investigative Department of the Investigative Committee of Russia, the investigation is processed by the Department I for Major Crimes Investigation, and the investigative work is being carried out with the participation of crime scene investigation team of the regional investigative department. The scene of the incident has been inspected and searched, witnesses are being questioned and the necessary forensic tests have been ordered. Two suspects have been identified and detained on hot pursuit, and the necessary procedural steps are being taken, including the issue of preventive measures against them. Investigators from the Investigative Committee and the police are also carrying out investigative and search operations to identify other persons involved in the crime. The investigation of the probe is under supervision of the head of the regional investigative department of the Investigative Committee of Russia.