Chess champion Amina Abakarova arrested for trying to poison her opponent
Chess champion Amina Abakarova faces serious charges after trying to poison her opponent with mercury
In a surprising case in the world of chess, Amina Abakarova, champion of the North Caucasus Federal District, was arrested on suspicion of trying to poison her opponent during the Dagestan Chess Championship, held in Makhachkala. This fact has shocked the international chess community who are calling for a lifelong disqualification for Abakarova.
Case details
On August 5, 2024, during the development of the championship, security cameras captured Abakarova spreading a substance on the board of her opponent, Umayganat Osmanova. According to the president of the Dagestan Chess Federation, Sazhi Sazhidov, the substance was identified as a mercury compound. Osmanova began to feel unwell shortly after the match began, experiencing symptoms of poisoning, including nausea and dizziness.
The executive director of the Russian Chess Federation (FAR), Alexandr Tkachov, said that Osmanova received immediate medical attention and was sent home after her recovery. Fortunately, her life is not in danger.
Possible legal consequences
Abakarova faces the possibility of a lifetime disqualification from chess and losing her job. In addition, she could face up to three years in jail if found guilty of attempting to poison her opponent. Russian Sports Minister Sazhid Sazhidov confirmed the existence of video evidence supporting the allegations against Abakarova.
Motive for the attack
The motive behind the attempted poisoning appears to be a long-standing personal rivalry between Abakarova and Osmanova. Witnesses at the tournament said the two have been feuding since childhood, and Abakarova was said to have acted out of revenge after feeling insulted by comments Osmanova made about her family. Abakarova admitted the attack, justifying her action as a response to "nasty things" Osmanova had said behind her back.
Reactions
The incident has drawn strong condemnation from Dagestan's Sports Minister Sazhida Sazhidova, who highlighted the serious health risks posed by exposure to mercury. The Russian Chess Federation is seriously considering a lifetime disqualification for Abakarova, stressing the need to maintain integrity and safety in the sport.