Gang of Terrorists Including Foreign Mercenaries Eliminated in Chechnya

Federal forces in Chechnya have destroyed a gang of terrorists which included foreign mercenaries. Head of the Chechen administration Akhmad kadyrov told journalists Wednesday that a large terrorist base was located in Chechnya's Shatoi District, 10 km from the Malye Varandy village, whose inhabitants told the federal forces about the base's location.

According to Kadyrov, the three mercenaries - two Arabs and an African - are being identified. "The bandits left a lot of weapons, ammunition, radio-controlled explosive devices, maps indicating the location of planted mines, means of communication, narcotics and various equipment along with packets with humanitarian aid," he said.

Kadyrov added that the operation prevented transportation of 12 portable anti-aircraft missile complexes which the bandits prepared to use.

He stressed that there are forces inside the republic and beyond it which tried to hamper the peace process. They are funded and morally supported from abroad. "These bandits, often disguised as federal forces try to prevent the return to peaceful life, they indulge in ransacking and kidnapping and mine roads," Kadyrov said.

"But I know for sure that they do not enjoy support among the local population," the head of Chechnya's administration said.