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FSB exposes IS cell planning high-profile terrorist attacks in Moscow

The cell was guided by Syria-based emissaries originating from the Central Asian region

© Alexander Ryumin/TASS

MOSCOW, October 26. /TASS/. Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) has busted a cell of the Islamic State terror group, outlawed in Russia, which had conspired to carry out high-profile terrorist attacks in Moscow, the FSB press service said in a statement.

“Six members of a clandestine cell linked to the Islamic State international terrorist organization have been detained in the Moscow region,” the statement reads. “The cell was guided by Syria-based emissaries originating from the Central Asian region,” the FSB added.

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FSB busts underground arms trafficking syndicate in northwestern Russia

“The detained persons planned to carry out high-profile terrorist attacks in Moscow, using both firearms and improvised explosive devices. Automatic firearms had been confiscated during searches, as well as money, communication means, reports about preparations for terrorist attacks, and a manual for putting together homemade explosive devices,” the statement adds.

According to the FSB, apart from receiving money from abroad, the cell also profited by committing serious crimes. In addition, "the cell members took every possible effort to keep their activities secret and avoid drawing the attention of law enforcement agencies."

A criminal investigation has been opened, investigative activities are underway.

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