14 injured in Ukrainian supermarket explosions

Kiev, Apr 22: Twin explosions struck two supermarkets in Ukraine's second largest city Kharkiv today, injuring 14 people, Interfax Ukraine news agency reported.

Interfax, quoting police in the eastern city, said the explosions occurred virtually simultaneously around noon in the two stores -- about one km (half a mile) apart.

Other reports from the city said the blasts were caused by explosive devices detonating in the area where shoppers are requested to leave packages. Police and Ukraine's Emergencies Ministry were investigating the incidents.

There was no indication what may have been behind the explosions. Many such incidents in ex-Soviet states are linked to quarrels between competing business groups.

REUTERS