Moscow, Jan 7 (IANS/RIA Novosti): Three suspected militants, allegedly plotting terrorist attacks during the Russian Orthodox Christmas, have been killed in Russia's volatile southwestern region of Kabardino-Balkaria, police said Monday.
Police said law enforcers stopped a cargo vehicle for inspection of documents during a special operation Sunday, but people inside the car opened fire on them.
"Three militants were killed in return fire. According to our information, the militants were preparing to stage terrorist attacks in churches of Kabardino-Balkaria and the Stavropol territory during Christmas divine services," a police statement said.
An assault rifle, a pistol, ammunition and three improvised explosive devices were confiscated from the car.
None of the law enforcers were harmed in the shooting.