GROZNY. April 24 (Interfax-AVN) - Following a dramatic increase of tensions in the Avtury village in Chechnya's Shali district federal forces established night-time patrols in the village streets, the district's military commandant Major General Gennady Nakhayev told Interfax-Military News Agency on Wednesday.
"The patrolling takes place at a request of the district administration. Four people have been killed in Avtury under unclear circumstances since early April, and all these crimes have been committed at night," Nakhayev said.
Officials of the district administration believe that "night- time patrols will enable the authorities to enhance the safety of civilians and prevent new crimes."
The patrols involve local policemen and servicemen of a company subordinate to the military commandant's office. They carry regular small-arms. "Combat vehicles do not take part in the patrolling, but their crews are always ready to support the patrols in case of serious engagements," Nakhayev stressed.