SBI explores four theories, including Russian involvement, in Chastiakov's death
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The State Bureau of Investigation has conducted interviews with around 20 witnesses and staged three crime reenactments as part of its ongoing investigation into the death of Hennadiy Chastiakov, an aide to Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who was killed in a grenade explosion in November 2023.
This information was disclosed by the SBI in response to a request from the NV’s sister publication Ukrainska Pravda on Feb. 29.
The Bureau is exploring various angles in Chastiakov’s death, including potential violations of explosive device handling protocols and the possibility of an accident resulting from careless handling of such devices. Law enforcement officials are also examining the legality of suspect Oleh Timchenko’s acquisition of grenades. Timchenko is currently facing charges for the illegal sale of ammunition.
Major Hennadiy Chastiakov died on Nov. 6 following a grenade explosion at his residence. His 13-year-old son sustained severe injuries and was hospitalized.
According to the wife of Valerii Zaluzhnyi’s assistant, Chastiakov brought home a gift package containing a bottle of alcohol, which triggered the explosion when opened.
Sources within law enforcement agencies informed NV that Chastiakov’s death was deemed accidental. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko stated that Chastiakov’s son had picked up the grenade, but the officer took it from him and subsequently pulled the pin, mistakenly believing the grenade to be inert.
On Nov. 8, the SBI announced that it was pursuing four lines of inquiry into Chastiakov’s death, with the primary theory being an accident resulting from mishandling of an explosive device. Another possibility under consideration is the potential involvement of Russia’s special services in a premeditated murder.
Timchenko has been charged by the SBI for purchasing, storing, carrying, and selling explosive devices without proper authorization, in violation of Article 263, Part 1, of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. He could face a maximum sentence of seven years in prison. Timchenko was placed under personal recognizance as a preventive measure on Dec. 11 while awaiting trial.
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