Gazpromneft Refinery Charged With Polluting Moscow

Russian prosecutors have opened an administrative case against a Gazprom-owned refinery in Moscow, blaming the company for polluting air in the capital.

The Moscow city prosecutor's office announced the case on December 30.

The Gazpromneft Moscow Refinery has been accused of releasing "hazardous chemicals into the air."

The charge initially was brought by Russia's environmental watchdog, Rosprirodnadzor, after a powerful smell enveloped several Moscow districts in early November.

The smell prompted a warning for residents to stay indoors and shut their windows.

Media reports linked the smell to an accident at the refinery, which is located on the outskirts of Moscow.

Gazpromneft has denied the charges.

Based on reporting by Interfax and TASS