An unclaimed object discovered in an urban-industrial district of St. Petersburg was found to be an explosive device, prompting investigators to open a criminal case. This development was reported by RIA Novosti, citing the regional interior ministry press service. The update confirms that authorities have launched proceedings under Article 222 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation in relation to the incident.
According to the police, the alert originated on February 9 when officers from Nevsky District were alerted to an unclaimed item located in the industrial zone along Petro-Slavyanka Street, building 5. Upon initial evaluation, officials determined that the object possessed explosive content. The investigators have since classified the matter as a criminal case, aligned with provisions related to unlawful possession and illicit handling of explosive substances.
The case underscores ongoing concerns about security in industrial areas, where unattended items can pose significant risk to the public and to workers in adjacent facilities. Local law enforcement emphasizes that the discovery prompted a standard emergency response, including securing the area, initiating a controlled examination, and coordinating with forensic specialists to confirm the composition and potential threat of the material.
In related coverage from the Shot Telegram channel, there were claims of a thwarted terrorist attack at a metallurgical plant in St. Petersburg. The channel reported that an improvised explosive device, containing around 2 kilograms of potent explosives, was found on the facility’s grounds and subsequently neutralized. Authorities have not corroborated these statements at this time, and it remains a separate line of inquiry pending official verification.
Meanwhile, the situation has drawn attention to the broader issue of security for critical infrastructure and industrial sites. Local authorities reiterate that any object suspected of being hazardous is treated with caution, and thorough checks are conducted to determine the risk and to prevent possible damage or loss of life. The case remains under active investigation as investigators work to establish a clear timeline of events, the origin of the device, and any connections to other potential threats. The responsible agencies are expected to provide updates as new information becomes available, and residents are reminded to report any suspicious finds promptly to the police or emergency services. (Attribution: press service of the Nevsky District interior ministry and corroborating reports from the regional emergency response network.)