New Insights into the Death of Lt Gen Igor Kirillov through Verified Footage

A recent investigation reveals the details of the explosion that claimed the life of Lt Gen Igor Kirillov in Moscow, providing new insights into the nature and execution of the attack.

What inspired this investigation into the shocking death of Lt Gen Igor Kirillov was the critical analysis of verified video footage and social media content surrounding the explosion that killed him and his assistant. Ukrainian reports have asserted that the attack targeted the commander, known for his significant role overseeing Russia's Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Protection troops since 2017. Previously sanctioned by the UK in October for his involvement in spreading Kremlin propaganda, Kirillov's assassination has sparked intrigue and investigation.

The event occurred early one Tuesday morning when Kirillov exited a modern apartment complex in southeast Moscow, at which point a hidden bomb detonated from a parked scooter, as detailed by Russia's Investigations Committee. BBC Verify's analysis has validated footage showing two individuals departing the building moments before the explosion, with their attire matching that of the deceased found shortly after. Debris from the blast obscured any further visual details.

In a subsequent examination, images confirmed the remains of an electric scooter among the debris. Notably, apart from missing handlebars, the scooter remained largely intact, indicating a method of fragmentation rather than a straightforward explosive blast. Analysis from Janes, a private investigations organization, stressed that the imagery pointed towards an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) being responsible for the attack.

Intelligence experts noted the sophistication displayed in the operation, hypothesizing that the device was ingeniously concealed within the scooter to evade initial detection. The use of military-grade explosives was suggested, with the possibility of a remote triggering mechanism, potentially activated via a phone or remote device.

Reportedly, the explosion employed approximately 300 grams of explosive material, sufficient to damage structures up to 17 meters away. Eyewitness accounts and media interactions reveal debris from the explosion scattered across nearby residential properties, underscoring the blast's potent impact on the area.

As investigations progress, BBC Verify continues to analyze incoming footage and details, aiming to piece together the circumstances surrounding Lt Gen Kirillov's death while exploring related questions of accountability in the ongoing conflict.