Moscow, Jul 24 (IANS): Thirteen businessmen imprisoned for various economic crimes in Russia have been set free under an amnesty, a presidential envoy said.

"As of now, 13 people have been released under the amnesty," Boris Titov, presidential envoy for protection of the business community rights, was quoted as saying by Xinhua.

Eight people were released from pre-trial detention and five from prisons.

On July 3, the State Duma or the lower house of parliament, announced the amnesty which would apply to several thousands of offenders.

The amnesty does not need the approval of the upper house or Federation Council, or the president's consent.

According to the business ombudsman's website, all the prisoners under amnesty must be set free within six months from the day the measure took effect.

Titov said there were over 13,000 people sentenced to jail for various economic crimes. But only those who committed crime for the first time would be pardoned. The number could reach 3,000, according to official estimates published on Titov's website.

Those who are freed must first pay financial compensation, Titov said.