Provocation main theory behind Odesa tragedy – ministry

15:49, 19.05.2014 1 min read

Investigators are probing provocation as the main theory behind the tragic events in Odesa on May 2, which killed nearly 50 people as a result, said Ukraine's Deputy Interior Minister and chief investigator Vitaliy Sakal.

"Provocation is the most likely theory currently being probed," he told a press conference in Kyiv on Monday.

Overall, investigators are probing four theories: an order to extremist groups to destabilize the situation in Ukraine; unlawful activity by Odesa regional authorities and police aimed at discrediting the current central government; unchecked actions by football fans and pro-Russian groups; and a provocation by radical individuals.

It was reported that 48 people were killed and 247 injured during the disturbances in Odesa on May 2. Most of them died as a result of a fire at a trade union house.