Kolokol-1
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Kolokol-1 (Russian: Колокол, English bell) is a synthetic opioid, developed for use as an aerosolizable incapacitating agent. Although the exact chemical structure has not yet been revealed, it is thought to be a derivative of the potent opioid fentanyl, most probably 3-methylfentanyl dissolved in halothane as an organic solvent.[1]
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[edit] Chemical structure and physiologic effects
It is possible that Kolokol-1 may actually be carfentanil or 3-methylfentanyl. The drug is formulated to be delivered as an aerosol. Upon inhalation, Kolokol-1 takes effect within one to three seconds, rendering the subject unconscious for two to six hours. In humans, the drug produces hypoventilation, which may progress to apnea, the severity being dependant on the level of exposure and the subject's degree of opioid tolerance. Hypoventilation may lead to death if the subject is not provided with ventilatory assistance; apnea, the complete cessation of breathing, is of course fatal.
[edit] Development and early use
According to Lev Fyodorov, a former Soviet chemical weapons scientist who now heads the independent Council for Chemical Security in Moscow, the agent was originally developed around a secret military research facility in Saint Petersburg, then known as Leningrad, during the 1970s. Methods of dispersing it were later developed and tested by releasing harmless bacteria through subway system ventilation shafts first in Moscow and then in Novosibirsk. Fyodorov also claimed that leaders of the failed August 20, 1991 Communist coup considered using the agent in the Russian parliament building.[2]
[edit] Use during Moscow theater hostage crisis
Kolokol-1 is thought to be the chemical agent employed by a Russian Spetsnaz team during the Moscow theater hostage crisis in October 2002. At least 129 hostages died during the ensuing raid; nearly all of these fatalities were attributed to the effects of the aerosolised incapacitating agent that was pumped into the theatre to subdue the militants.[3][4]
[edit] References
- ^ Russia Confirms Suspicions About Gas Used in Raid, Washington Post, 31 October 2002
- ^ Gas looks like secret KGB tool, New York Daily News, 29 October 2002
- ^ Gas 'killed Moscow hostages', BBC News, 27 October 2002
- ^ Moscow court begins siege claims, BBC News, 24 December 2002
