The investigating bodies of the Russia’s Investigative Committee for the Republic of Komi have opened a criminal case over a crime under article 246 of the RF Penal Code (breach of environment safety rules during operations) after oil-containing liquid was spilled.

According to investigators, between May 2013 and May 2014, persons in charge failed to prevent travel of waste products, namely oil-containing liquid escaping from a sludge saver during exploitation of Lekker oil field near an oil and gas production shop. The leak led to the drying of trees, considerable deterioration of the woodland’s quality as an environmental object and a habitat, which will require a long time to fix. The amount of damage excesses 1 million rubles.

At present investigating operations are underway to identify the persons responsible for the incident and to find out the circumstances. The investigation is ongoing.