Russian authorities deny that the explosion was caused by a drone attack. Based on the videos published by the Russian media, it seems that the explosion has spread cannonballs in its surroundings.
A powerful explosion has occurred at a factory manufacturing optical equipment in the town of Sergiyev Posad, about 70 kilometers northeast of Moscow.
They talk about it, among other things Meduza news site and The Moscow Times magazine.
According to Meduza, the explosion occurred on Wednesday before eleven local time at the optical mechanical factory in Zagorsk, which manufactures, among other things, night vision devices and binoculars for the Russian army. The entire factory has been evacuated due to the explosion.
According to local authorities, 38 people have been injured in the explosion, five of whom are in intensive care. According to the authorities, there may still be people in the ruins.
The cause of the explosion is not known.
Russian authorities have claimed in recent days that they have intercepted several drones flying in the direction of Moscow. However, according to the rescue authorities, the explosion this time was not caused by a drone attack.
According to the prosecutor, the explosion occurred in a warehouse next to the factory where pyrotechnic products were stored. However, fireworks manufacturer Piro-Ross, which uses the warehouse, denies this and says the explosion occurred in another warehouse where metal pipes were stored.
There is no indication in the official information that ammunition was manufactured or stored in the area. Russian investigative journalism site
The Insider however, has published a video showing a cannonball flying several blocks away due to the force of the explosion.
Other Russian websites have also published videos and pictures showing cannonballs scattered around the explosion. has not been able to verify the authenticity of the pictures and videos.
The Russian Investigative Committee has opened a criminal investigation into violations of industrial safety regulations.
Correction 9.8. 2:31 p.m.: The article incorrectly stated that the explosion happened on Friday. It happened today, Wednesday.
Added 9.8. at 15:00 information about cannonballs found in the area.