Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Prosecutor’s Office of Andijan region has released preliminary findings regarding the cause of the gas explosion at a mosque in Izbaskan district.

According to the agency, the explosion was caused by a gas leak in the basement of the ablution building, where gas pipes connected to heating devices were installed. The leak led to the accumulation of gas inside the room. When electricity was turned on, a flash and subsequent explosion occurred, resulting in the collapse of the building.

As a result of the incident, a criminal case has been initiated under Articles 205 ("Abuse of Power or Official Authority") and 259 ("Violation of Fire Safety Rules"). An investigation is underway.

The explosion occurred on 31 March at 12:19 PM at the Ahmadali Khoja Mosque in the Mirzo Ulugbek neighborhood. The tragedy claimed the lives of three people, and ten others were injured and hospitalized.

The government will provide support to the families of the victims and the injured. A special commission will also develop measures to prevent such incidents in the future.