Teenagers blow up helicopter in Siberia for cash reward

In Noyabrsk, Siberia, two schoolboys aged 13 and 14 were detained after allegedly breaking into an airport and destroying a Soviet-era Mi-8 helicopter. The boys reportedly used a flammable liquid and cigarettes to ignite the helicopter, which was valued at approximately £12 million. The incident occurred in a city that is crucial for oil and gas infrastructure, raising concerns about security in the area. The teenagers claimed they were promised a reward of 5 million roubles for their actions, indicating a possible motive behind the attack. This suggests that they may have been influenced by external factors or individuals encouraging such destructive behavior. The father of one of the boys is currently fighting in Ukraine, which may have contributed to the boys' decision to engage in this reckless act. Authorities were alerted to the situation after the boys returned to the scene, leading to their apprehension. The method of entry into the airport, through a hole in the fence, highlights potential security vulnerabilities that need to be addressed to prevent similar incidents in the future. This event raises significant questions about the influences on youth behavior and the consequences of such actions. The destruction of valuable property not only has financial implications but also poses risks to public safety and security in a region critical for energy resources.