Ex-Russian Banker Critical After Shooting - Sky News

5:46pm UK, Friday March 23, 2012

A former Russian banker is in a critical condition in hospital after being repeatedly shot during an attack in London.

Detectives are treating the attack on the man, named by Russian media as German Gorbuntsov, as attempted murder.

Sky's crime correspondent Martin Brunt said the seriously injured man was under armed guard in hospital.

Mr Gorbuntsov was shot several times as he entered a block of flats in Byng Street on the Isle of Dogs on Tuesday evening at around 7.30pm.

The attacker opened fire with a sub-machine gun, according to the Kommersant newspaper.

A suspect was seen running away from the scene of the attack away from Westferry Road.

He is described as white, 6ft tall, of slim build and was wearing dark clothing.

Mr Gorbuntsov, who is in his 40s, previously owned banks in Russia and Moldova, according to Russian media.

Scotland Yard said it was "too early to speculate" on Russian reports that the attack may be linked to a 2009 investigation into a murder attempt on another Russian banker, Alexander Antonov, in Moscow.

A spokesman said: "This is sitting with Trident which investigates gang-related shootings. There is no reason it should rest with anyone else."

Local officers are patrolling the area in an attempt to provide reassurance to the community.

Any witnesses or anyone with information are asked to call the Met Police on 020 8733 4212 or if you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

More to follow...