Seven people have been killed and 26 others injured following an explosion and subsequent fire at a cafe in Kazakhstan.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing foreign media, that the incident occurred at a local catering facility, resulting in significant casualties.
Among the deceased is a 16-year-old teenager. Emergency services confirmed that 10 individuals were successfully rescued from the scene. A regional operations group is currently working at the site of the blast, and emergency medical helicopters have been dispatched to transport the injured to specialized hospitals.
A criminal case has been initiated under the article for violation of fire safety rules resulting in loss of life. Authorities are conducting a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion, which preliminary reports suggest may be linked to gas safety negligence.
Industrial and domestic gas explosions are a recurring concern in the region, often prompting large-scale safety inspections of public catering establishments. Kazakhstan's emergency situations ministry frequently issues warnings regarding the maintenance of pressurized containers and heating systems in commercial properties to prevent such tragedies.
