KHANKALA, May 15 (AVN) - Chechen rebels opened fire at federal positions and installations 11 times on Monday, a spokesman for the unified federal headquarters told the Military News Agency.
Sappers defused 19 explosive devices, including two powerful landmines on routes of federal motorcades and civil transport, the spokesman said. Despite their efforts, one military vehicle was blown up by rebels. In Grozny, field engineers checked and cleared of mines seven buildings and about 100m of underground communications.
Federal scouting parties exposed and destroyed three caches and spotted a seven-strong group of guerrillas that evaded engagement. The federals seized two mortars, four assault rifles and 20 hand grenades.
A total of 23 suspected rebels were detained in the course of special operations on Monday, the spokesman said.