Grenade Shrapnel Found in Plane Crash That Killed Ex-Wagner Boss Prigozhin
Russian President Vladimir Putin dropped a bombshell: fragments of hand grenades were found inside the bodies of victims from the plane crash that killed former Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. The deadly crash happened north of Moscow on August 23, just two months after Prigozhin’s failed mutiny against the Kremlin.
Mutiny Shook Putin’s Grip on Power
Prigozhin’s mutiny was the biggest challenge to Putin since 1999. The Wagner boss demanded the removal of Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, rattling the Russian leadership. Many speculated the plane might have been shot down. But Putin flatly denied it, insisting there was “no external impact” and dismissing such theories as baseless.
Putin Calls for Thorough Crash Investigation
Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin revealed investigators also found hand grenade fragments in the victims’ bodies. He urged a full investigation, suggesting that alcohol and drug tests should be carried out on the victims. Putin referenced previous cocaine discoveries linked to Wagner offices, adding fuel to suspicions.
Massive Cash and Cocaine Haul Uncovered in Wagner Offices
Putin also exposed a huge stash seized by the FSB from Wagner offices in St Petersburg: a whopping 10 billion roubles (£82.3 million) in cash and 5 kilograms of cocaine. Despite these explosive details, Russian officials have stayed tight-lipped about the crash’s cause. Prigozhin’s death was confirmed by genetic testing, but the exact reasons behind the crash remain hush-hush.
