The investigating bodies of Moscow Main Investigations Directorate the Russia’s Investigative Committee have launched a criminal investigation in a crime under part 1 of article 238 of the RF Penal Code (conducting work or providing services that do not meet safety standards).

According to investigators, on 16 November 2014, unidentified workers of gas-distributing substation maintenance service in micro-region Shelepikha of Presnya district in the city of Moscow conducted operations that did not meet safety standards which caused a sharp surge of pressure in gas distribution network. There was gas leak followed by fires in at least 16 flats in the said district.

At present a number of investigative operations are underway to find out all the circumstances of the incident. The investigation is ongoing.