Violence Erupts Over Ownership Dispute at Russia's Largest Online Retailer Wildberries
A violent confrontation erupted on September 18 near the headquarters of Wildberries, Russia's largest online retailer, resulting in the death of one individual and injuries to approximately ten others, including three police officers. The incident is linked to an ongoing power struggle between the company's founders, Tatyana Bakalchuk and her estranged husband, Vladislav Bakalchuk.
The Wildberries press service reported that Vladislav Bakalchuk, along with several men, allegedly attempted to illegally enter the company's offices. Simultaneously, another group was said to be attempting to seize a different Wildberries office in Moscow. Vladislav Bakalchuk described the altercation as a 'large-scale provocation,' asserting that his presence at the office was for the purpose of further negotiations regarding the suspension of new storage building projects.
The couple are currently undergoing a contentious divorce. Vladislav stated, 'I arrived in the office along with my colleagues but right at the entrance I was attacked by security officers and unknown individuals who provoked an armed conflict.' In contrast, Tatyana Bakalchuk countered via Telegram, claiming that Vladislav's assertion of negotiations was absurd, as no such discussions had been agreed upon prior to the incident. She called for law enforcement to manage the situation effectively, underlining her position in the company and the stakes involved.
Reports indicate that three individuals sustained injuries during the standoff, while some sources, including the Telegram channel Shot, suggest the number may be as high as ten, with a significant number of those injured being law enforcement personnel.
In the aftermath of the shooting, it was reported that approximately 30 individuals were detained at the scene, including potential suspects linked to the violence. Additionally, Tatyana Bakalchuk has publicly stated that her husband's actions are part of a conspiracy involving Sergei Anufriyev and Vladimir Bakin, who she claims orchestrated the attempted seizure of Wildberries’ offices.
The roots of this conflict run deep. Tatyana was previously the sole proprietor of Wildberries until 2019 when she transferred a small stake to her husband amidst their initial partnership. The couple’s divorce proceedings have now intensified, particularly following Vladislav’s controversial plea for aid from Ramzan Kadyrov, the Kremlin-backed leader of Chechnya, regarding what he considered harmful maneuvers by Tatyana, specifically, plans to merge Wildberries with Russ Group, a major out-of-home advertising operator.
Tatyana, recognized as the richest woman in Russia, has maintained connections with influential political figures, including Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. The unfolding drama at Wildberries not only encapsulates personal and marital discord but also reflects the complex interplay of business, power, and political influence in contemporary Russia.
With escalating tensions and public statements from both parties, the situation remains volatile, prompting widespread media attention and public concern over the implications for one of Russia's largest retail companies.
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