Investigators open negligence case over food shortages in Evenkia

Russia’s Investigative Committee opened a criminal negligence case over inadequate food supplies to residents of Evenkia in Krasnoyarsk region, its regional office said on October 14.

Investigators say critically low water levels in the Nizhnyaya Tunguska River halted navigation and cargo deliveries to district settlements from August 2026. The regional agency responsible for northern territories and Indigenous peoples is tasked with organising and coordinating seasonal supplies.

The investigation alleges that agency officials failed to take adequate steps to deliver food on time despite an appeal from the district head. According to that account, their inaction resulted in shortages of food and other essential goods.

The committee also said the high cost of air transport raised retail prices beyond the reach of socially vulnerable residents. The case was opened under Part 1 of Article 293 of Russia’s Criminal Code. No defendants’ names or court judgment were reported.

In October, local authorities introduced a heightened readiness regime in Tura and settlements of the Ilimpiya group. Besides Tura, the group includes Yessey, Kislokan, Nidym, Tutonchany, Uchami, Chirinda, Ekonda and Yukta.

The district administration reported on October 14 that an aircraft had delivered seven tonnes of subsidised food, Kommersant reported. That delivery does not establish that shortages have been completely resolved. The circumstances of supply arrangements remain under investigation.