MOSCOW. Jan 14 (Interfax) - The task of preventing terrorism can not be resolved without bringing order on the ground, which means that it cannot be resolved without the participation of society, Russian Investigative Committee spokesman Vladimir Markin said.
"It is impossible to rely on special forces and heroic special purpose units alone. Yes, our servicemen are heroes and have repeatedly proven their readiness to sacrifice themselves in order to save people and children. But if citizens are not ready to be vigilant, to not involve themselves in illegal business and corruption that provide an environment for the terrorist underground, the special services, not to mention investigators can only punish and fight [terrorism in wake of] the tragic consequences," Markin said in an interview with the Izvestia newspaper published on Tuesday.
It is possible to take control on the ground and close channels of illegal trafficking and terrorism only in such a way - from the top and the bottom simultaneously, Markin said.
"If someone closes his eyes to an open drug sale, illegal migration and other crimes and the local authorities do nothing [about the situation] as occurred in [the Moscow district of] Western Biryulyovo, an effective response is not fighting but citizens' uniting to protect a legal state," the spokesman said.
Every precondition for effective cooperation exists, Markin said. "And in particular my Twitter is always open for feedback. Write on certain cases and situations and you will definitely find support," Markin said.
"Accusing all politicians, officials and officers in general of the sins of corruption and betraying the people's interests is not only unfair but also plays into the hands of the minority. That is why dialogue between the state and society via mass media outlets and public figures and civil discussions of certain issues is precisely what we need," Markin said.