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SOFIA, Bulgaria — Bulgarian authorities have arrested Igor Grechushkin, a Russian-Cypriot national linked to the 2020 Beirut port explosion that killed at least 218 people and injured thousands. Grechushkin was detained at Sofia International Airport on September 6 upon arrival from Cyprus, following an Interpol red notice issued at Lebanon’s request.
Grechushkin is alleged to have leased the Moldovan-flagged MV Rhosus, which transported approximately 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate to Beirut in 2013. The chemical remained improperly stored at the port until it detonated on August 4, 2020, causing one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history.
Bulgarian officials confirmed that Grechushkin cooperated during his arrest and is being held for up to 40 days while Lebanon submits formal extradition documents. The arrest marks a significant development in Lebanon’s long-stalled investigation, which has faced repeated political interference and judicial setbacks.
No Lebanese officials have been convicted in connection with the blast, despite widespread public outcry and ongoing legal proceedings.
