Polish authorities arrested a man suspected of gunning down a Russian activist who used to openly criticize President Vladimir Putin, with officials saying a link to a foreign intelligence service is likely.
Murder in broad daylight
The murder, carried out in broad daylight on Monday, is being seen as the latest in a series of operations that Polish authorities believe form part of a coordinated Russian sabotage campaign targeting Nato member states, intended to spread fear and undercut support for Ukraine.
Suspect details
The suspect is a 36-year-old carrying a Georgian passport, Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski told reporters at a press conference in Warsaw. He is also linked to organized crime and other offences committed in Poland, some dating to 2022, reported AP.
Robert Kuzovkov, the victim who was known by the pseudonym Semyon Skrepetsky, was shot dead near his home in Biala Podlaska, an eastern Polish city close to the Belarusian border. Prosecutors said the gunman fired two shots first, then approached and fired three more at close range before fleeing. Kuzovkov, 44, was pronounced dead at the scene from gunshot wounds to the head, chest and back.
Possible foreign intelligence involvement
“We consider it possible that foreign intelligence services may have been involved,” said security services minister Tomasz Siemoniak. “Foreign services sometimes hire criminals to carry out operations. We have seen this in previous years. While those cases did not involve murder, criminals were hired to conduct assaults in other countries. We are therefore taking this possibility very seriously,” said Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
“Everything points to this being a political murder,” “If that was the case — if it was ordered by Russia — then it is an extremely serious matter internationally. It would constitute state terrorism.”
Polish investigators initially detained two Belarusian nationals but released them after finding no evidence of direct involvement.
Victim's background
Kuzovkov had painted unflattering portraits of Putin, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov and other senior Russian officials. One canvas depicts Putin cradled in the arms of Soviet dictator Josef Stalin. Just a day before his death, he posted a video of himself placing a Russian flag in a Berlin rubbish bin on June 12, Russia's sovereignty day.
Catch the latest world news and top headlines. Download the TOI App.
About the Author
TOI World Desk
At TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and passionate writers tirelessly sifts through the vast tapestry of global events to bring you the latest news and diverse perspectives round the clock. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy, depth, and timeliness, we strive to keep you informed about the ever-evolving world, delivering a nuanced understanding of international affairs to our readers. Join us on a journey across continents as we unravel the stories that shape our interconnected world.
