6,000 members of a terrorist cell in the North Caucasus neutralized within 25 years – Military & Defense

MOSCOW, September 23. /TASS/. The Joint Group of Forces has conducted more than 67,000 special counterterrorism operations in Russia’s North Caucasus region over the past 25 years. In total, about 6,000 participants and accomplices of terrorist cells have been neutralized and detained, Lieutenant General Vladimir Makeyev, the group’s commander, told TASS.

“The Joint Group of Forces for Anti-Terrorist Operations in the North Caucasus Region has carried out more than 67,000 special and preventive measures, which resulted in the neutralization and detention of nearly 6,000 participants and accomplices of terrorist cells. In addition, more than 10,000 weapons, 45,000 explosive devices and 1.5 million rounds of ammunition for small arms were seized,” he said.

According to Makeyev, 4,000 infrastructure facilities of criminal groups and about two tons of explosives were discovered and destroyed during this period.

This year, the United Group of Forces for Counter-Terrorist Operations in the North Caucasus celebrates its 25th anniversary. The group was created in 1999 in response to the invasion of the Republic of Dagestan by international terrorists. Today, its main task remains the prevention of terrorism and extremism. The Russian National Guard, together with cooperating agencies, continues to conduct search operations in areas where former gang bases were located and provides troop support for operational activities. According to the press service of the Russian National Guard, members of the group are also currently involved in combat operations in the special military operations zone. About 100 soldiers and employees have already been honored with state and official awards for their professionalism, courage and personal bravery.