Russian Ship Owner Arrested Over Beirut Blast
Bulgarian authorities have apprehended Igor Grechushkin, the Russian owner of the cargo ship linked to the devastating Beirut port explosion in August 2020. His arrest, confirmed by Lebanese judicial officials, marks a significant development nearly five years after Interpol issued red notices for him and the ship’s captain, Boris Prokoshev. Grechushkin was detained at Sofia’s Vasil Levski airport after arriving from Cyprus, and Lebanon is now preparing for his potential extradition.
Background of the Beirut Explosion
The catastrophic explosion on August 4, 2020, resulted in the deaths of at least 218 people and injured over 6,000, causing extensive damage across the Lebanese capital. This incident is regarded as one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history. The source of the disaster was the Moldovan-flagged cargo ship Rhosus, which had been abandoned in Beirut in 2013. The vessel was en route from Georgia to Mozambique when it encountered engine trouble and was subsequently detained by Lebanese authorities for unpaid port fees.
Under Grechushkin’s ownership, the Rhosus was left to deteriorate in the port, with its hazardous cargo of ammonium nitrate transferred to a warehouse where it remained improperly stored for years. The explosive material ultimately ignited, leading to the massive explosion that devastated the area. Despite the scale of the tragedy, no high-ranking Lebanese officials have faced conviction, despite multiple indictments and widespread public outcry. Initial investigations led by judge Fadi Sawan faced significant political pushback, resulting in stalled proceedings.
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Ongoing Investigations and Accountability Efforts
Following the initial setbacks, judge Tarek Bitar took over the investigation last year, renewing efforts to hold accountable those responsible for the disaster. He has summoned several senior officials as part of this renewed push. The newly elected reformist leadership in Lebanon, including President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, has committed to ensuring the investigation continues and that justice is served.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Lebanese officials are preparing the necessary documentation for Grechushkin’s extradition. If Bulgaria declines the request, Lebanese investigators are ready to travel to Bulgaria to question him directly. The outcome of this case may play a crucial role in the ongoing quest for accountability in the aftermath of the Beirut explosion, as the nation grapples with the lingering effects of this tragedy.
