Russia has strengthened its security measures after two suicide bombings on Sunday and Monday which killed 33 people in the country’s southern city of Volgograd on the eve of Winter Olympics.
At least 4,000 police officers and special troops are taking part in a large-scale security operation called “Whirlwind Anti-terror” in Volgograd, according to Russia’s state-owned news agency RIA Novosti.
The units are investigating private sites including cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls.
Around 1,000 people were searched in different addresses at the first day of the operation. 87 were sent to police stations for resisting a police officer or possession of unregistered firearms.
The Russian government also tightened security measures along the Ukraine border, according to officials.
The number of security forces has been doubled and the inspections have been increased to prevent explosives and ammunitions crossing the Luhansk part of Ukraine border.
Funerals of the first victims of the Sunday’s bombing are to be held on Tuesday.
Russia is gearing up to host Winter Olympics in the city of Sochi in February. The bombings are considered to be aimed at undermining the organization.
englishnews@aa.com.tr
