Analysis of Lt Gen Igor Kirillov's Death: Insights from Verified Footage

The death of Lt Gen Igor Kirillov in a blast in Moscow has prompted thorough analysis of verified footage, indicating the use of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) concealed within a scooter. Experts suggest the attack was well-planned, involving significant surveillance, and was likely remotely detonated.

In a significant incident that has captured international attention, Russian Lt Gen Igor Kirillov was killed in a blast in Moscow, prompting investigations into the nature of the attack. Using verified social media videos and images, BBC Verify has analyzed the events leading up to the explosion, which Ukrainian sources claim was orchestrated against the senior commander responsible for Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops.

Reports indicate that the blast occurred as Lt Gen Kirillov was departing from a modern apartment building in Southeast Moscow early on Tuesday morning. The Russian Investigations Committee, akin to the FBI, has stated that the explosion was triggered by a device concealed within a parked scooter located near the building's entrance.

Analysis from BBC Verify has confirmed that footage captured prior to the explosion shows two individuals leaving the building moments before the detonation. The clothing of these individuals matches that of the bodies found at the scene, while the propped-up scooter appears to serve as the device's hiding spot. Subsequent footage reveals the remnants of the electric scooter among the rubble, indicating that it was used as a vehicle for an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

Experts at Janes, a private open-source investigations organization, elaborate that the images suggest a fragmentation effect rather than a traditional blast, indicating the use of readily accessible components to construct the device. An intelligence manager from McKenzie Intelligence further describes IEDs as capable of being designed to simulate everyday items to avoid detection, signaling a higher level of sophistication in this operation.

Russian media speculations suggest that the device may have been affixed to the scooter's handlebars and detonated remotely, potentially using a signal from a phone or car remote. This theory aligns with expert analysis which indicates that the assailants likely conducted extensive surveillance to execute the attack successfully. Initial details suggest the bomb contained up to 300 grams of explosive materials, with the capacity to cause damage to nearby structures.

Witnesses shared additional accounts of the aftermath, highlighting how the explosion impacted surrounding residences. Videos circulating on social media display scenes of panic and emergency response efforts, including rescue vehicles attending to the casualties and debris scattered throughout the vicinity.

As investigations continue, BBC Verify remains committed to examining new evidence and sharing updates about the circumstances of Lt Gen Kirillov's death, reinforcing the importance of meticulous verification in reporting such significant incidents.