Suspect detained in murder of Russian chemical weapons chief

The investigation into the tragic death of Igor Kirillov, head of the Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Defence Troops of the Russian Armed Forces, has led to the detention of one suspect.

He is believed to be involved in the explosion that killed both Kirillov and his assistant.

According to Moscow-based newspaper Kommersant, surveillance cameras at the crime scene captured a suspicious vehicle, which eventually led authorities to the suspect, Caliber.Az reports.

The perpetrator was reportedly contacted through messaging apps and given the contact information of an SBU (Ukrainian Security Services) liaison. The investigation swiftly identified the individual as a key suspect, with the case being resolved "on a hot trail," a source close to the investigation said.

The Investigative Committee revealed that a Uzbek citizen born in 1995, had been detained. During questioning, he confessed to placing explosives on an electric scooter at the direction of Ukrainian security services. He also stated that the incident had been broadcast to Dnipro from a carshare vehicle.

On December 17, the explosion near a residence on Ryazansky Prospekt in Moscow claimed the lives of Lieutenant-General Igor Kirillov and his assistant. A criminal case has been initiated, with charges including terrorism, murder, and the illegal trafficking of weapons and ammunition. The explosion, equivalent to about 1kg of TNT, caused severe damage to the building, destroying windows, a door, and bricks on the facade, with debris scattered by the blast and shrapnel.

Meanwhile, Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, criticized the United Nations' reaction to the killing, calling it "evidence of venality." Zakharova expressed her dismay at the UN's lack of condemnation, stating, "Corruptness is also about fear. It's about cowardice. And what they said yesterday, or better to say didn’t say, what they mumbled, is certainly an indicator of their venality."

Zakharova emphasized Kirillov’s reputation as a skilled professional on international platforms and in global organizations, underscoring the shock and disappointment over the lack of a stronger response from the international community.

By Tamilla Hasanova