Bulgarian authorities arrested Russian national Igor Grechushkin at Sofia’s airport, nearly five years after a massive explosion at Lebanon’s Port of Beirut that killed over 200 people. Grechushkin is the owner of the ship MV Rhosus, which brought tons of ammonium nitrate to Beirut in 2013—a shipment at the center of the tragedy.
Grechushkin’s cargo of ammonium nitrate was impounded at the port after mechanical issues were discovered with the Rhosus. Rather than being shipped out, the explosive material was stored in a warehouse—where it remained until it detonated in 2020, damaging much of Beirut and causing widespread loss and destruction. No Lebanese official has yet been convicted in connection with the blast.
After Grechushkin was arrested, Lebanese prosecutors declared they will seek his extradition. Bulgaria said it will now assess whether there’s enough evidence to begin the extradition process. There may be legal complications, including claims that Grechushkin holds Cypriot citizenship. Meanwhile, Lebanese authorities continue investigations and express hope that Grechushkin will help clarify the involvement of others linked to the Rhosus.
Grechushkin’s arrest is being seen by victims’ groups as a key step toward justice and accountability. President Joseph Aoun has pledged that his administration remains committed to uncovering the full truth behind what some suspect was an effort to conceal the dangers posed by the suspended shipment. Families of the victims have long campaigned for transparency and consequence, and now see potential movement in what has so far been a long, painstaking journey toward answers.
