19 more Chechen rebels surrender to Russian authorities

19 more Chechen rebels loyal to Aslan Maskhadov and Arab mercenary Abu al-Valida have surrendered their arms to Russian authorities. The Internal Affairs Ministry press service told Rosbalt that the rebels surrendered at a military installation. 12 of those surrendering weapons expressed the desire to help Russian authorities capture international mercenaries. They plan to help the Russian army and special forces find Chechen rebel bases, camps and supply lines.

The Internal Affairs Ministry press service said that the latest Chechen rebel surrenders were in connection with the reward of USD 100 thousand announced by Russian authorities for the capture Abu al-Valida. At the present time Russian authorities are continuing active work with other rebels and convincing them to surrender their weapons. In early December, 58 Chechen rebels surrendered their weapons to authorities.