Moscow restaurant explosion: Russian authorities identify who brought the explosives
Photo: The explosion occurred on the establishment's veranda (Getty Images)
The homemade explosive device that detonated on the veranda of the Balzi Rossi restaurant in central Moscow was brought in by a woman whom a security guard had refused to let inside the establishment, according to Russia's National Anti-Terrorism Committee, Russian Telegram channels and media.
Thus, the gas explosion theory, which was initially considered, is no longer under consideration.
According to Russian media, the woman who brought the explosive was used "unwittingly" by those who ordered the attack — meaning she did not know an explosion would occur, at least not at that moment.
It is known that the device went off precisely when guests from the Russian military command arrived at the restaurant. The event was supposed to be closed — meaning without outside visitors.
According to several Russian media outlets, a banquet was to take place at the Balzi Rossi restaurant, where "someone from the elite" was celebrating. Some outlets write about the birthday of a Russian army general, others about a wedding.
Explosion at the Balzi Rossi restaurant
On August 1, an explosion occurred at the Balzi Rossi restaurant in central Moscow — three people were killed, and another 21 were injured.
It is currently known that a woman arrived at the establishment carrying an explosive object, but a security guard did not let her inside.
As a result, the object detonated on the restaurant's terrace. Among the dead were the woman herself, the security guard, and one of the establishment's guests who had arrived for the festive evening of the so-called "elites."
The media reported that the force of the explosion was equivalent to 1 kilogram of TNT.
Initially, it was said the incident might have been caused by gas, but Russia's National Anti-Terrorism Committee later reported on the woman with the explosive device.
