Georgian suspect charged in Biała Podlaska killing of Russian critic of Putin

A 36‑year‑old Georgian citizen, Elnur A., has been charged with the murder of a Russian artist who was known under the pseudonym Siemion Skrepecki. The killing occurred on 15 June in Biała Podlaska, eastern Poland, when the victim was shot a total of five times – two initial shots followed by three close‑range shots, leaving seven gunshot wounds.

The victim, a satirist and caricaturist, had publicly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko and Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. Police say the suspect acted alone, though the investigation continues. He was detained on Thursday in a hostel in Piastów, near Warsaw, and was presented to the Lublin regional branch of the National Prosecutor’s Office on Friday. He refused to admit guilt or answer questions, and prosecutors have requested a three‑month pre‑trial detention.

The case highlights tensions surrounding criticism of Russian authorities abroad.