The European Commission (EC) has said it will investigate Russian energy giant Gazprom for possible anti-competitive practices in central and eastern European gas markets, according to BBC News.

The commission said it was concerned Gazprom "may be abusing its dominant market position". It will look at whether the firm restricts the free flow of gas across member states, prevents diversification of supply, and prices gas unfairly.

Gazprom said: "Let them investigate."

The commission said that, if established, Gazprom's practices "may constitute a restriction of competition and lead to higher prices and deterioration in security of supply. "Ultimately, such behavior would harm EU consumers."

The probe follows inspections by the commission of gas companies in many EU countries in September 2011.

Russia provides two-fifths of Europe's gas imports, and energy policy has been a source of tension between Moscow and the EU for some time.