Russian Chess Player Amina Abakarova Suspended for Allegedly Trying to Poison Opponent
Russian chess player Amina Abakarova has been suspended after a shocking incident at the Dagestan Chess Championship. Abakarova was caught on camera attempting to poison her opponent, Umayganat Osmanova, by spreading mercury on the chessboard.
The incident, which took place in Makhachkala, southern Russia, has stunned the chess community. Abakarova’s motive was reportedly to seek revenge on her childhood rival for a personal insult.
Osmanova experienced severe dizziness and nausea during the game, prompting a tournament judge to investigate. Security tapes revealed Abakarova’s actions, leading to her arrest and potential three-year jail sentence if found guilty.
President Sazhid Sazhidov of the Russian Republic of Dagestan for physical culture and sports confirmed the use of mercury and condemned Abakarova’s actions. English Chess Federation director Malcolm Pain expressed shock at the unprecedented incident, calling it “off the scale.”
Despite the scare, Osmanova managed to finish the match and secure a top spot. The chess world is reeling from this unprecedented act of sabotage, as Abakarova’s suspension sends shockwaves through the sport.