FSB releases video of suspect's detention in murder of Russian chemical weapons chief

Investigations have commenced at the scene of the explosion linked to the murder of Igor Kirillov, the head of the Russian Chemical Defence Forces.

Authorities have confirmed that the suspected perpetrator of the attack is being questioned on-site.

According to law enforcement sources, the suspect was brought to the site for an on-site testimony verification. "The alleged perpetrator is under heavy security, and the area is cordoned off," a source told Russian media, per Caliber.Az.

Earlier reports revealed that Uzbek citizen Akhmad  Kurbanov had been arrested in connection with the deadly blast that killed Kirillov. The Russian FSB (Federal Security Service) reported that the suspect, a 1995-born Uzbek national, detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) near a residential building on Ryazansky Prospekt in Moscow, resulting in Kirillov's death.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Investigative Committee of Russia, FSB said the suspect confessed to being recruited by Ukrainian security services. 

FSB released a video showing the detention of Kurbanov, who was apprehended on December 18 in the village of Chernoye, located in the Balashikha district.

Initially, the FSB shared footage of Kurbanov’s interrogation, where he admitted to agreeing to carry out the bombing of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, under orders from the SBU (Security Service of Ukraine), in exchange for $100,000 and a European passport.

The video shows FSB officers, supported by the Special Response Unit of Rosgvardiya, entering the building and proceeding to the suspect's apartment. Kurbanov is later shown being taken into custody outside the building.

The man allegedly arrived in Moscow, received a high-powered IED, and attached it to an electric scooter, which he parked near the entrance to Kirillov's home. After monitoring the area via video, he remotely detonated the bomb, killing Kirillov and his assistant.

The suspect has been handed over to the Investigative Committee for further questioning and documentation of his actions. He faces multiple charges under Russian criminal law, including terrorism, murder, and illegal possession and manufacture of explosives. He could face life imprisonment for his role in the attack.

Kirillov, a key figure in Russia’s military, was killed in the explosion on December 17, 2024. The bombing, which targeted his home, has raised security concerns and prompted swift reactions from Russian authorities. The Kremlin has accused the Ukrainian government of being behind the attack, citing the use of terrorist tactics. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov highlighted the effectiveness of Russian security forces in responding to the situation.

The Uzbek government has provided all available information on the detained suspect, assisting in the investigation.

By Tamilla Hasanova