The European Commission said on Tuesday that it has launched a investigation into he Russian energy giant Gazprom for possible violation of EU's antitrust laws, RIA Novosti news agency reported.

The European Commission said in a statement it would investigate three cases of alleged anticompetitive practices in Central and Eastern Europe.

"First, Gazprom has allegedly divided gas markets by hindering the free flow of gas across EU member states. Secondly, the company might have prevented the diversification of the gas supply. Finally, Gazprom may have imposed unfair prices on its customers by linking gas prices to oil prices," the EU Commission said.

The European Union has already accused Gazprom of limiting competition in EU territory. In September 2011, EU police searched Gazprom offices in several European states.

If the investigation finds Gazprom guilty violating EU antitrust laws, the company will have to pay 30% of its yearly income as a fine.