31 people (though some sources claim 35) have been killed today after an explosion in a crowded terminal rocked Domodedovo International Airport in Moscow. In addition to the dead, over 130 people have been injured in the blast.

While it has not been confirmed that the explosion was an act of terrorism, all signs point to this conclusion and investigations have been launched. It is understood that law enforcement authorities are currently seeking three people in connection with the incident. One member of the Russian Investigation Committee has told a state news agency that the bomb was loaded with metal shrapnel and went off with the force of around 15 to 22 pounds of dynamite.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev spoke on television following the apparent attack and has offered his sympathies to victims and their families. The President was due to fly to the World Economic Forum in Switzerland but has cancelled plans in light of the violence and security across Russia’s airports has been placed on high alert.

So far no groups or individuals have claimed responsibility for the explosion, though Moscow did suffer a large death toll in two suicide attacks in March last year at the hands of Chechnya militants. 40 were killed in the subway where last year’s attack took place. Two flights were also targeted in 2004, with two females purchasing illegal tickets from Domodedvo airport staff and proceeding to blow up bombs on each plane, killing 90.

Normal flights have been resumed at the airport today albeit with increased security procedures in place. The LA Times reported that taxis outside the airport hiked up their fees immediately after the blast, charging as much as $800 for a ride into the city centre instead of the usual average of $150.

Reported by Claire Blackthorne.

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