Shell delivered for scrap metal exploded in Khorezm

On April 11, reports circulated on social media that a shell sold by the military exploded at a scrap metal collection point in Yangiarik district, Khorezm region, causing the death of an employee. The Ministry of Defense responded to these reports.

According to the ministry, the shell had been illegally dug up by local shepherds from an area not controlled by the military and was then delivered for scrap metal.

"In such situations, citizens should immediately notify law enforcement authorities while following safety precautions," the report stated.

It was also clarified that military personnel were not involved and no criminal liability applies to them. The type of shell involved is not used by the Armed Forces of Uzbekistan and is believed to have been manufactured in the 1970s.

Currently, the Military Prosecutor's Office of Uzbekistan is conducting a preliminary investigation into the case.

Separately, the Khorezm Regional Emergency Situations Department denied earlier rumors that an asteroid had struck a house in the region.