Explosion Rocks Russian Police Training Center in Syktyvkar

An explosion has occurred at the Interior Ministry's professional training center in Syktyvkar, Russia.

The incident caused heavy smoke, prompting the evacuation of around 200 people. Emergency and law enforcement teams are on the scene, The Caspian Post reports via Russian media.

Preliminary reports indicate that nine people were injured, eight of whom were hospitalized, with two in serious condition. Authorities suspect the blast may have been caused by a flashbang grenade in the assembly hall, where construction work was underway at the time.

Streets surrounding the center have been cordoned off. Social media videos show smoke pouring from building windows, and initial assessments suggest a fire may have started among construction materials. Investigations are ongoing to clarify the circumstances of the explosion.