Federals Complete Operation In Argun

Federal forces have completed a large-scale operation that aimed to contain militant groupings, find and seize their arms and ammunition in Argun, 30 km east off the Chechen capital city of Grozny. The blockade of the city has been partially lifted by now, with the check-points having started letting its residents in and out of the city. The city market resumed operation as did all the local organizations and enterprises. The effort took five days. According to the Argun military commandant's office, detained in the course of the operation were 13 persons suspected of being members of illegal armed groupings. The military commandant's office confirmed that the fighting that took place in Argun on January 7 killed 12 militants, among them field commander Magomed Matsuyev. The locals suffered no losses then.