Russia: Teenagers Burn Down Helicopter For 5 Million Rubbles (X image @Inclutus)

Two teenagers set fire on a Russian civilian Mi-8 helicopter at airport in the town of Noyabrsk, Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District, said Russian Telegram channel Baza. Reportedly, the 13-year-old Timur, and 14-year-old Sasha received received instructions to set the helicopter on fire through Telegram, with a promise of 5 million rubles ($55,000) as payment.

The teens, who are in hospital under guard, also admitted to setting a cellphone tower on fire a few days earlier and being paid 30,000 rubles ($330) for it.

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The duo entered the airport through a hole in the fence and escaped through the same hole. However, they were caught one hour later. They had attempted to ignite the helicopter by pouring flammable liquid on it and using cigarettes. Initially, they threw one cigarette, but it didn’t work. One of them then lit a second cigarette and placed it into the liquid, causing an explosion.

Both faced severe facial burns. After escaping from the scene, they called for an ambulance which took them to the hospital.

According to Baza, the helicopter was almost entirely destroyed, with only the tail section remaining intact.

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The Mi-8 is the world’s most-produced helicopter with over 17,000 units in both military and civilian service across more than 50 countries. It is primarily used as a transport aircraft. The helicopter made its first flying in 1961, and is still being manufactured. As per the report, the father of one of the boys is fighting the war against Ukraine.