Ukrainian forces under fire after ammunition depot explosion in Milya.
Ukrainian authorities have charged an official from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) for negligence linked to the organization of an ammunition depot in the village of Milya, located in Kyiv Oblast. This incident occurred on August 28 when Russian forces attacked the site, resulting in a detonation that led to significant casualties and destruction.
According to reports, the decision to establish the depot in a former vegetable storage facility was made without adequate safety measures for the storage of explosives and munitions. Furthermore, the depot was situated unlawfully close to residential areas, raising serious concerns about public safety.
The Bureau of Investigation stated that the building did not meet the necessary standards for ammunition storage, and the site’s placement had not received approval from relevant law enforcement and air defense units. Investigators indicated that the official failed to minimize the risks associated with the potential destruction of a large quantity of munitions by hostile forces.
The official has been charged with inaction by military authorities during a state of war, as per Article 426 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. If convicted, the official faces a prison sentence of up to ten years. The Pechersk District Court of Kyiv has ordered that the individual be held in custody, with the possibility of bail, according to the Bureau’s announcement.
The devastating attack claimed the lives of 35 individuals and caused extensive damage, affecting 191 private homes, 14 apartment buildings, a police station, garages, a restaurant, an elderly care facility, a store, and a logistics center, as well as damaging 24 vehicles, including police and fire service cars.
Context
- On the evening of August 28, the Russian military struck the depot in the Bucha district, leading to explosions as stated by President Zelensky. Approximately 400 people were evacuated from the area, with about 130 homes damaged across several streets. Law enforcement opened a criminal case regarding official negligence.
- Svetlana Vodolaga, spokesperson for the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, noted that most of the fatalities were residents of the elderly care facility impacted by the detonation.
- Residents of Milya expressed surprise, claiming they were unaware of the ammunition depot’s proximity until the Russian drone strike and subsequent explosions. They believed nearby facilities were a bottled water factory and an ice cream factory.
- As of the morning of August 30, the death toll had risen to 38, although the Bureau of Investigation reported 35 deaths.
- The publication “GORDON” has provided updates on the tragedy and the responses from officials.
