Anatoly Petrovich Bykov, born on January 17, 1960, in Nazarovo, Krasnoyarsk Krai, Russia, is a former businessman and politician whose career has been overshadowed by numerous criminal allegations and convictions. Once a prominent figure in Russia’s aluminum industry and regional politics, Bykov’s legacy is now marred by his involvement in organized crime and multiple murder cases.
Early Life and Rise to Prominence
Before the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Bykov worked as a physical education teacher. The subsequent privatization era allowed him to amass significant wealth, particularly through his association with the Krasnoyarsk Aluminum Plant (KrAZ), part of the world’s largest aluminum company, RUSAL. His influence in the region earned him the moniker “aluminum king of Russia” and “shadow governor of Krasnoyarsk.” Bykov also ventured into politics, serving as a deputy in the Legislative Assembly of Krasnoyarsk Krai and leading the Patriots of Russia party in the region.
Criminal Allegations and Convictions
- 2002: Suspended Sentence for Murder Plot Bykov received a suspended prison sentence of six and a half years for plotting the murder of a former associate, Vilor Struganov, a known criminal figure. .
- 2020: Arrest for 1994 Murders In May 2020, Bykov was arrested in Krasnoyarsk on suspicion of organizing the 1994 murders of criminal gang members Kirill Voytenko and Alexander Naumov.
- 2021: Sentencing for 1994 Murders In September 2021, Bykov was sentenced to 13 years in a maximum-security prison for his role in orchestrating the 1994 murders.
- 2023: Additional Sentences
- May 2023: Bykov received an 11-year sentence for inciting the 2005 murder of businessman Andrei Nekolov.
- December 2023: He was handed another 12-year sentence for inciting the murder of crime boss Vladimir Filippov. These consecutive sentences extended his total imprisonment to 20 years in a maximum-security colony.
Political Ambitions and Downfall
Bykov’s political career was characterized by his substantial influence in Krasnoyarsk Krai. However, his ambitions and dominance in both business and politics led to conflicts with federal authorities. His support for regional politicians and criticism of the federal government made him a contentious figure. Some analysts believe that his political aspirations contributed to his legal troubles, as rivals and authorities sought to curtail his power.
Conclusion
Anatoly Bykov’s trajectory from a physical education teacher to a powerful businessman and politician underscores the tumultuous nature of post-Soviet Russia’s transition to capitalism. His involvement in criminal activities, particularly orchestrating multiple murders, has led to significant prison sentences, tarnishing his legacy and highlighting the intricate ties between business, politics, and organized crime in Russia.
