Three suspected militants killed in Russia’s DagestanDecember 14, 2012 - 11:58 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Three suspected militants have been shot dead in a shootout with police in the volatile North Caucasus republic of Dagestan, regional law enforcement authorities reported, according to RIA Novosti. The suspects, driving a Lada Priora sedan, were stopped for a routine ID check by police on Thursday, Dec 13 night in Dagestan’s capital, Makhachkala. They refused to show their ID papers and opened fire at police officers instead. “The shooters attempted to escape, but police chased and surrounded them in a private house,” the reports said. “All three were killed in a brief fire exchange while police suffered no casualties.” The identities of the militants are being established, police said. The Islamist insurgency, once confined largely to Chechnya, has spread in recent years across the North Caucasus. Attacks on security forces, police and civilians are reported regularly in the neighboring republics of Ingushetia, Dagestan and Kabardino-Balkaria. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Pasadena to host Armenian Genocide commemoration event The Pasadena Armenian Coalition will host its community-wide Armenian Genocide Commemorative Event. Armenia: Opposition activist transferred to Investigative Committee Activist Samvel Vardanyan has been accused of insulting the lawmaker Hakob Aslanyan from the ruling Civil Contract party. Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims. Azerbaijan, Jordan sign deal on defense cooperation Azerbaijan and Jordan have signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of defense, according to an official statement. |