At least three people were killed and 21 others injured after a homemade explosive device detonated outside an Italian restaurant in Moscow, according to Russian state media, citing security officials.
The explosion occurred at about 8pm local time on Kudrinskaya Square, near the city centre.
According to Russia’s National Anti-Terrorist Committee (NAK), a woman carrying the explosive device attempted to enter the restaurant but was stopped by a security guard.
The device exploded shortly afterwards, killing the woman, the security guard and a restaurant visitor.
Authorities investigating motive
The restaurant, located in one of Moscow’s well-known Stalin-era skyscrapers, was hosting a private function at the time of the incident.
Authorities have not disclosed the identities of those attending the event or indicated who they believe may have been the intended target of the attack.
Witnesses said they saw several injured people being carried from the scene covered in blood following the explosion.
Initial reports suggested the blast originated in the restaurant’s kitchen. However, the restaurant later clarified in a statement that ‘there was a problem outside’.
Security tightened after blast
Roads surrounding Kudrinskaya Square were temporarily closed as emergency responders and security personnel secured the area.
An evening cycling event scheduled nearby was cancelled after dozens of participants had gathered close to the scene.
Video released by Russia’s RIA news agency showed heavily armed law enforcement officers cordoning off the area from the public.
In recent years, several senior Russian military figures have been assassinated in and around Moscow. Russian authorities have blamed Ukraine for those attacks.
