Bulgaria has suspended the extradition of Igor Grechushkin, a Russian national linked to a 2020 Beirut port explosion, to Lebanon due to concerns over the death penalty. The Sofia City Court postponed the extradition case on November 10, according to Nova TV.
Grechushkin, detained in Bulgaria on September 6 via an Interpol warrant, faces six charges in Lebanon that carry the death penalty. Bulgarian authorities have requested assurances from Lebanon that he will not face capital punishment, with a December 1 deadline for responses. The ship owned by Grechushkin exploded in Beirut’s port on August 4, 2020, killing at least 137 people, injuring thousands, and causing widespread destruction. Over 300,000 residents were displaced, and damage was estimated in the billions of dollars.
Grechushkin, arrested in Bulgaria on September 16, was previously detained in Lebanon following the explosion, where he paid a penalty before initiating bankruptcy proceedings. The current ownership of his vessel remains unclear. Russian embassy officials have indicated willingness to assist him if needed.
