Gunmen open fire on security forces in southwestern Russia

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Gunmen suspected of terrorist activities opened fire on security forces surrounding their position in southwestern Russia in an operation on Thursday, the country's Federal Security Service (FSB) said.

The FSB had announced the launch of a counter-terrorism operation overnight in the northern Caucasus city of Nalchik, the administrative center of the Kabardino-Balkaria region, saying it was pursuing a group of suspects.

According to the FSB, members of the group attempted to hide in a community garden in the Cherek district, where they were surrounded by law enforcement and security services.

In response to authorities' demands they surrender, the suspects started shooting, it said in a statement.

"The counter-terrorism regime was declared in accordance with the requirements of the Federal Law On Countering Terrorism, in order to prevent and disclose a terrorist act, minimize its consequences and protect the vital interests of the individual, society and the state," said the FSB statement.

The agency said that throughout the operation, special measures and temporary restrictions will be in effect until further notice.