Explosion at Syktyvkar Interior Ministry Training Center Injures Nine, Prompts Evacuation

Incident Unfolds at Syktyvkar Training Facility

An explosion rocked the Ministry of Internal Affairs' professional training center in Syktyvkar, the capital of Russia's Komi Republic, on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The incident resulted in injuries to at least nine people and necessitated the evacuation of approximately 200 individuals from the premises.

Emergency services, including multiple ambulance crews and firefighters, were swiftly deployed to the scene. Streets surrounding the training center were cordoned off as part of the safety response.

Casualties and Emergency Response

Of the nine individuals injured, eight were hospitalized, with two reported to be in serious or critical condition. All of the victims were identified as students at the professional training center. Injuries sustained included burns, smoke inhalation, and other wounds.

The explosion triggered a significant fire within the building, which reportedly covered an area of approximately 340 square meters. Rescuers successfully extinguished the blaze, and preliminary assessments indicated that the center's classrooms were not damaged, suggesting the incident may not affect future operations.

Investigation into the Cause

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion. Preliminary reports from various sources suggest that a stun grenade detonated in the assembly hall of the training facility. At the time of the incident, construction and renovation work was underway in the building.

Other potential causes being considered include a gas cylinder detonation during the repair work or a violation of safety regulations. The Investigative Committee of the Komi Republic has opened a criminal investigation, potentially on negligence charges, and is examining how the grenade came to be inside the educational institution.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs' professional training center is responsible for training new law enforcement personnel, including cadets, detectives, and traffic police officers, as well as providing continuing education for serving officers.