Russian authorities have confirmed that three people were killed in a car explosion in the capital, Moscow, early on Wednesday. The incident marks the second deadly bombing in the city in just three days.
Details of the Police Incident
According to a statement from Russia's Investigative Committee, which handles major crimes, the explosion occurred on Yeletskaya Street in southern Moscow. The committee reported that two traffic police officers and a third individual died after an explosive device was triggered.
The device detonated as the officers approached a person they deemed suspicious near their patrol vehicle. Officials have established a crime scene and are examining CCTV footage from the area. Witnesses described hearing the blast at approximately 1:30 am local time.
Context of Recent Attacks
This explosion follows another targeted attack earlier in the week. On Monday, Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov was killed when a bomb exploded under his car on Yaseneva Street in southern Moscow at around 7 am.
Russian investigators described Sarvarov's death as a likely assassination. He was the head of the operational training directorate of the Russian military's general staff, a role linked to the war in Ukraine. Officials have pointed the finger at Ukrainian intelligence services.
Reactions and Broader Implications
The consecutive attacks have sparked calls for retaliation from Russian officials and prominent pro-war figures. This week's bombing is the third in Moscow within the past year to claim the life of a senior Russian officer connected to the invasion of Ukraine.
Television broadcasts showed the area on Yeletskaya Street cordoned off, with a significant police presence. The incidents underscore the ongoing security tensions within Russia as the conflict continues.
