Explosive ordnance experts from Moldova’s National Police have completed an on-site investigation in an open area near the village of Ivancea, Orhei district, where the site of a drone explosion was located on the evening of September 30.
According to preliminary findings, the unmanned aerial vehicle exploded after hitting trees in a forest strip near the G72 road, approximately 10 meters from the roadway.
Police said investigators found a crater approximately 50 centimeters in diameter and around 30 centimeters deep.
“Within a radius of approximately 30 meters, damage to trees caused by the blast wave was identified, as well as traces characteristic of thermal effects,” the National Police said.
Two additional craters, approximately 50 and 30 centimeters in diameter, were found about 15 meters from the main explosion site, near the roadside.
Multiple fragments of the aircraft were discovered within a radius of approximately 120 meters, including parts of the rear wings marked “Герань-4,” electronic components and elements of the propulsion system.
Among the recovered components was a turbojet engine showing signs of thermal damage, according to police.
All recovered components have been sent for expert examination.
The investigation follows a report received by police on the evening of September 30 about a loud sound resembling an explosion near the village of Brănești in Orhei district.
Specialized services were dispatched to the area to establish the circumstances and determine all details related to the incident.