Wagner Chief Prigozhin reportedly killed in plane crash

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOSCOW: The head of the Russian Mercenary group Wagner which attempted a coup to topple Russia’s military leadership in June Yevgeny Prigozhin was reportedly been killed in a plane crash Wednesday according to Russian officials.

Russia’s Ministry for Emergency Situations on Wednesday announced the crash of a private plane travelling between Moscow and Saint Petersburg.

“According to preliminary information, all 10 people on board died, including three crew members,” the ministry said.

Russia’s aviation agency later said the Wagner chief was on board the plane.

“According to the airline, the following passengers were on board the Embraer-135 (EBM-135BJ) aircraft: Prigozhin, Yevgeny,” said Rosaviatsia, which also listed Dmitry Utkin, a shadowy figure who managed Wagner’s operations and allegedly served in Russian military intelligence.

The Kremlin and the defence ministry were yet to react.

Yevgeny Prigozhin’s short-lived rebellion was seen as the biggest challenge to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s authority since he came to power.

Since then, uncertainty has surrounded the fate of Wagner and its controversial chief.