Moscow, Russia – A deadly explosion in southern Moscow early Wednesday claimed the lives of two traffic police officers and another individual, according to Russian investigators. The blast occurred near the site where Russian General Fanil Sarvarov was killed earlier this week, in an incident that Russia blamed on Ukrainian intelligence.

Explosion Details

The Russian Investigative Committee reported that the explosion happened when the officers attempted to arrest a suspicious individual near their service vehicle.

“An explosive device was triggered as the officers approached the suspect,” the statement said.

The two police officers, aged 24 and 25, died from their injuries. The third victim, who was standing close to the officers, was also killed in the blast.

Authorities have launched an investigation for attempted murder of law enforcement officers and explosives trafficking.

Local residents described a terrifying scene. Alexander, who lives nearby, told Reuters:

“There was an explosion. It was a loud bang – like with the car a few days ago.”

Another resident, Roza, recalled being woken by the blast in the early hours, saying the entire building appeared to shake.

Proximity to Previous General’s Killing

The explosion took place on Yeletskaya Street, near the location where General Fanil Sarvarov, head of the operational training department within the Russian General Staff, was killed by a car bomb earlier this week. Sarvarov had been involved in military training related to the ongoing Russian operation in Ukraine.

Russian authorities have suspected Ukrainian involvement in Sarvarov’s death, although Ukraine has not issued an official comment.

Since Russia launched its offensive against Ukraine in February 2022, several high-ranking Russian officials, generals, and local public figures connected to the military operation have died in similar explosions either within Russia or in occupied Ukrainian territories. Kyiv has occasionally claimed responsibility for some of these incidents.

Human Impact

Reporting from Moscow, Al Jazeera’s Yulia Shapovalova highlighted the human toll:

“These two young traffic police officers were just 24 and 25 years old. The older of the victims had a wife and child. It truly is a tragedy for their families.”

The area around the explosion was quickly cordoned off, with a large police presence visible in images broadcast by Russian media. At this stage, Russian officials have not disclosed a motive for the blast.

Security Concerns in Moscow

The incident raises growing concerns about security in Moscow amid ongoing Russian-Ukraine hostilities. Analysts note that high-profile assassinations and bombings targeting Russian officials reflect the risks posed to personnel involved in the military operation in Ukraine.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, especially in areas near government offices, police stations, and military facilities, following the recent spate of explosions in the city.

Broader Context

The deaths of the two young traffic officers underscore the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel in Moscow, particularly in areas with heightened tensions due to ongoing military conflicts. The repeated targeting of Russian officials, including generals, points to the broader security implications of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with potential repercussions for public safety in urban centers.