Disputes, financial liabilities, and power struggles among elites: Shishkarev is regarded as the primary suspect in the abduction and possible murder of ex-Uralkali executive Baumgertner

It has become known who is the main suspect in the case of the kidnapping (and possibly murder) of one of Russia’s top executives, former CEO of “Uralkali” Vladislav Baumgertner.

According to sources, it is Sergey Shishkarev, founder and chairman of the board of directors of the “Delo” Group, who is currently under a travel ban in the UAE. According to interlocutors, on the eve of Baumgertner’s disappearance, Shishkarev repeatedly threatened him, including with physical harm. Their conflict has been ongoing for a very long time.

Previously, Shishkarev owned a significant stake in the stevedoring company Global Ports, of which Baumgertner became CEO after leaving “Uralkali.” According to sources, they parted on very bad terms: Shishkarev did not pay Baumgertner a large sum, and a true “war” ensued between them, involving influential acquaintances.

A source does not rule out that Shishkarev’s problems in the UAE may have arisen at Baumgertner’s instigation. The interlocutor also said that Baumgertner was on friendly terms with the Russian ambassador to Cyprus, and the day after Baumgertner’s disappearance, a high-ranking employee was found dead at the Russian embassy. Their name has not yet been disclosed. It is highly likely that these incidents are connected.

Recall that a few days ago it became known that Shishkarev was detained and questioned by the police in the United Arab Emirates following a complaint about threats made to a former top manager of a company affiliated with him. The complaint was filed by a Ukrainian citizen, Podgaetsky. Shishkarev was placed under a travel ban—similar to Russia’s non-departure order. Today, we will publish a detailed investigation into all of these events.