German Gorbuntsov, an exile in Britain, is in a critical condition in hospital after being shot at a block of flats.
His assailant is understood to have opened fire with a sub-machinegun before fleeing the scene at Byng Street on Tuesday night. The victim formerly owned banks in Russia and Moldova.
Mr Gorbuntsov, 45, was “seriously injured” and placed in a medically induced coma by hospital staff. It is understood he is under armed guard by Met officers to prevent a further assassination attempt.
He is on Moldova’s wanted list over allegations of an illegal bank takeover and embezzlement. He reportedly told journalists several times: “If I go back to Russia they will kill me.” The Met declined to confirm the victim’s identity or say which hospital he is in but said detectives from Scotland Yard’s Trident unit were investigating an attempted murder in the Isle of Dogs.
It said the victim was shot a number of times as he entered a block of flats by a suspect described as white, 6ft tall and of slim build. He was wearing dark clothing and seen running from Byng Street away from Westferry Road.
A Met statement added: “Detectives from the Trident Gang Crime Command are investigating and are treating the shooting as attempted murder. They are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time or who may have information about the incident.
“The shooting is not thought to be gang related or linked to any other incidents in Tower Hamlets. Local officers are patrolling the area and providing reassurance to the community.”