Criminal authorities have opened an inquiry into a violent incident in Elista that harmed three officers from the Russian Guard. The development was confirmed through the Telegram channel of the Investigative Department of the Investigative Committee for the Republic of Kalmykia in the Russian Federation, which serves as an official conduit for updates on the case.
The incident unfolded at a private residence on Rodnikovaya Street, where a blast occurred on February 11 during operations connected to the ongoing search, neutralization, and disposal of potential explosive threats. The event is linked to a man suspected of orchestrating an explosion intended to trigger a response or provide some form of psychological disruption in the city center.
The report from the Investigative Department indicates that an unidentified explosive device detonated, injuring three members of the Russian Guard who were actively engaged in locating and disarming explosive devices in the course of their duties. The seriousness of the injuries necessitated hospital treatment for all three officers, underscoring the danger faced by service members when dealing with suspected explosive materials.
Subsequently, investigators filed criminal charges against the suspect under Article 317 of the Russian Criminal Code, which covers the attack on the life of a law enforcement officer during the incident. This charge reflects the gravity of the threat and the intent alleged by the authorities during the attack on personnel carrying out official duties.
Earlier, on February 10, another explosion was reported at a psychological assistance center in Elista. Located on the first floor of a residential building on Klykova Street, the event drew attention after a local resident reportedly observed a live grenade outside the window and alerted authorities. The ensuing investigation sought to determine the sequence of events and any connections to subsequent incidents, as provincial law enforcement and emergency services coordinated their response to assess risk and provide support to those affected.
Three people sustained injuries in the February 10 blast, and one of the victims did not survive. The remaining two individuals were hospitalized in serious condition, highlighting the unpredictable and lethal nature of the situation that residents faced. The response involved rapid dispatch of medical teams and protective services to stabilize victims and secure the area while investigators gathered evidence and interviewed witnesses at the scene.
In a follow-up development, authorities conducted a search at the residence of a 29-year-old man suspected of involvement. The operation occurred amid heightened scrutiny as investigators assessed surveillance data, residence records, and testimonies from individuals connected to the case. Reports indicate that the suspect had prior ties to the psycho-neurology dispensary and that his visits to the center may be relevant to understanding his motives and the broader context of the incident. This phase of the investigation aimed to piece together the suspect’s movements and potential planning related to the explosions.
In related reporting, earlier incidents in the region included a separate explosion in a residential setting that resulted in injuries to two people in Ingushetia, illustrating a broader pattern of violence affecting security personnel and civilians. The authorities emphasized their commitment to a thorough, transparent investigation to determine the causes, identify all responsible parties, and assess any ongoing risks to the public.