A devastating explosion has destroyed a petrol station in Makhachkala, the capital of the southern Russian republic of Dagestan, killing 35 people and injuring 105 more, TASS reports, citing the Russian Emergency Situations Ministry.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed condolences for families and friends of the victims.
At least three children were killed in the explosion, while at least 13 minors were injured. Emergency workers continue to clear the rubble in search of more wounded people.
The region has declared Tuesday a day of mourning.
The regional office of the Russian Investigative Committee has launched a criminal investigation. Investigators believe that a fire broke out on 14 August at around 9:50 PM, causing an explosion, which killed and injured people, damaged nearby buildings and cars.
Photo: the Russian Emergency Situations Ministry
The explosion occurred at a petrol station located in northern Makhachkala. Preliminary reports suggest that the fire was caused by an explosion of tanks placed in front of the petrol station.
The rubble clearance continues at the site, the Emergency Ministry has sent a helicopter to evacuate the injured people. Around 260 people were extinguishing the fire, Health Minister Viktor Fisenko arrived in Makhachkala.
