Suspect sought in shooting of Russian banker in Tower Hamlets

Metropolitan Police detectives investigating the attempted murder of Russian banker German Gorbuntsov, 45,  have issued CCTV stills of a suspect walking along Manilla Street, E14.
The images show the alleged gunman moments after the shooting at 19:24hrs on  March 20, 2012, carrying a bag.

Gorbuntsov owned banks in Russia and Moldova, and had set up almost 40 companies in security, construction, real estate and finance. He moved to London in 2010, becoming a resident of the Isle of Dogs.

Detective Chief Inspector Russell Taylor, leading the investigation into the murder said: “We are continuing to examine CCTV footage from the area and are keen to speak with anyone who may have information about the shooting.”

Witnesses or anyone with information are being asked to call the incident room on 020 8721 4868,  or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 should anyone wish to remain anonymous.

At the time of the shooting there was considerable speculation in the media linking the incident in Tower Hamlets and its victim with a similar event in Russia.

German Gorbuntsov's flat. Photo: David Anstiss

Gorbuntsov, was shot several times as he entered his multimillion-pound apartment in Byng Street and remains in a stable condition in hospital.

The Metropolitan police ‘retain an open mind’ about the suspect, though the media has continued to report the affair as having more to do with Russian organised crime rather than state sponsored targeting.

The suspect is described as white, 6ft tall and of slim build, wearing a dark hooded top and jeans. He was seen running from Byng Street away from Westferry Road, believed through Bellamy Close, towards the Marsh Wall area.

DCI Taylor has three key questions for the public and potential witnesses:

“Were you in Byng Street or nearby, shortly before or after 19:20hrs on Tuesday 20 March?

“Did you see anyone acting suspiciously in the area?

“Did you see the man in the CCTV stills taking off a dark hooded top or leaving a bag?”

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March 25, 2012 : ‘Former Russian banker shot several times in Tower Hamlets is in a “critical but stable” condition’