Russia's top security agency says it
is investigating 1,600 individuals and organizations suspected of
aiding the Islamic State militant group.
Alexander Bortnikov, director of the Federal Security Service, the
main successor to the KGB, also said on December 15 that his agency has
identified 2,900 Russian citizens suspected of involvement in extremist
groups in Syria and Iraq.
He said that 198 of them have been killed in fighting and another 214
have returned to Russia. Bortnikov added that 80 of those who have come
back have been convicted and another 41 have been arrested.
President Vladimir Putin has said previously that between 5,000 and
7,000 citizens of Russia and other ex-Soviet nations have joined IS. He
said the Russian air campaign in Syria has been aimed at protecting
Russia's security.
Bortnikov said the threat from IS has actually picked up, as expected, since Russia started its bombing campaign in Syria.
"Militants from the 'hot spots' are trying to penetrate," prompting
the agency to increase its efforts to prevent attacks, he said.
http://www.rferl.org/content/russia-investigating-1600-with-ties-to-islamic-state-bortnikov/27430781.html
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