In the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, the organizer of the Elbrus ascent and guides were sentenced after the death of tourists
A court in Kabardino-Balkaria sentenced the organizer of the Elbrus ascent tour to 5 years and 7 months in prison, which led to the death of six tourists. Four guides were also sentenced to terms ranging from 3 years 2 months to 3 years 6 months under the article on the provision of unsafe services.
In September 2021, a group of 16 people was assembled to climb the western peak of the mountain. At an altitude of over 5,000 meters, one of the tourists said that she was no longer able to climb. She died during the descent accompanied by a guide from hypothermia.
The remaining three guides, despite the deteriorating weather, continued to accompany the group. They were obliged to stop the ascent, but did not. As a result, five more tourists died, and nine received various injuries. According to the court, given the complexity of the route, at least six instructors-guides should have been involved. Also, when organizing the hike, the dangerous weather and climate features of the area were not taken into account.
