Russian officials confirm Yevgeny Prigozhin’s death through DNA testing.
DNA Testing Confirms Presence of Wagner Chief on Downed Plane
DNA testing conducted on the wreckage of the plane belonging to Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has provided conclusive evidence that he was indeed on board, according to Russian authorities. The testing also confirmed the tragic deaths of all other individuals listed as passengers, including Dmitry Utkin, the alleged military head of Wagner. This investigation effectively dispels any lingering doubts about Prigozhin potentially switching planes at the last minute.
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“As part of the investigation into the plane crash in the Tver region, molecular genetic examinations have been completed. The results have established the identities of all 10 deceased individuals, confirming their presence on the flight as listed in the flight sheet,” stated the report from the Russian Investigative Committee, as reported by TASS.
The Federal Air Transportation Agency of Russia had previously released the passenger list shortly after the crash, which aligns with the findings of the investigation. The list includes Wagner commander Dmitry Utkin, Sergei Propustin, Evgeny Makaryan, Alexander Totmin, Valery Chekalov, Nikolai Matyuseev, aircraft commander Alexei Levshin, co-pilot Rustam Karimov, and flight attendant Kristina Raspopova.
While Russian President Vladimir Putin has been widely suspected of involvement in the crash, the exact method of the plane’s downing remains shrouded in mystery. A preliminary report from United States intelligence suggested that the crash was caused by an intentional explosion. However, the investigation has yet to uncover the precise details of the incident.
Putin, when questioned about his potential involvement, distanced himself from the incident and expressed measured praise for Prigozhin. He stated that he would await the conclusion of the investigation before making any further comments.
In the aftermath of the crash, impromptu memorials honoring the victims appeared throughout Russia. The future leadership of Wagner and the fate of the group, which has a significant presence in Africa, remain uncertain.
In addition to his role in Wagner, Prigozhin leaves behind a vast business empire that encompasses various industries, including catering businesses and controversial “troll factories.”
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As a long-time ally of Putin, the former head of Wagner played a crucial role in advancing the interests of the Russian state. His prominence grew significantly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, when he publicly embraced his position as the group’s leader.
After a public dispute with the Russian Ministry of Defense, Prigozhin attempted a mutiny against the Kremlin, coming dangerously close to Moscow. Tragically, his plane crashed just two months later.
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