In the gardening association «Zdorovye» in Pavlodar, a criminal case is being investigated regarding the fires. Allotment holders claim that the fires occur too frequently and in specific plots, and they are putting forward a theory of possible deliberate arson.
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE INVESTIGATION
According to the television channel «Irbis», the Police Department (DP) of Pavlodar Region has confirmed the investigation of a criminal case regarding the fires in the gardening association «Zdorovye».
One of the victims, Tatyana Petukhova, said that her dacha house burned down on the night of 12 August. According to her, the couple did not stay at the dacha that night and believe there was nothing there that could have ignited spontaneously.
The allotment holders also draw attention to the location of the affected houses. According to them, the fires occur not only on the outskirts of the gardening association but also in the central part, including on the same streets.
WHAT THEORIES ARE THE RESIDENTS PUTTING FORWARD
The gardeners consider deliberate arson to be one of the possible theories. They suggest that the fires may be linked to the subsequent seizure of land plots for development and their purchase at a minimal price.
Another allotment holder, Botagoz Utegenova, stated that, in her observation, such incidents have been occurring in a specific area of the gardening association for five years.
These theories are put forward by the residents themselves.
WHAT STATISTICS DOES THE DEPARTMENT FOR EMERGENCY SITUATIONS PROVIDE
The Department for Emergency Situations (DES) of Pavlodar Region provided statistics for the gardening association «Zdorovye». In 2024, 10 incidences of ignition and 8 fires were recorded there; in 2025 — 11 incidences of ignition and 6 fires; and in 2026 — 8 incidences of ignition and 5 fires.
Among the main causes, specialists cite careless handling of fire and violations of fire safety rules when using electrical equipment. For each incident, officers gather materials and determine the probable cause of the fire. If signs of deliberate action are detected, the materials are forwarded to the relevant authorities.
The allotment holders are collecting signatures and sending appeals to government bodies, demanding that measures be taken. They are also asking for their safety to be ensured, fearing new fires and possible tragic consequences.
