Russia: IS claims responsibility for August 20 attacks in Chechnya /update 1

Event

The Islamic State (IS) group has claimed responsibility for a series of attacks targeting security forces in Chechnya on Monday, August 20. According to a police spokesperson, four police officers were wounded in three separate incidents, including a knife attack against a police station in Shalinsky, a suicide bombing attempt in Mesker-Yurt, and a vehicle ramming in Grozny. A heightened security presence is anticipated in Chechnya in the coming days and weeks. Further attacks by IS cannot be ruled out.

Context

Separatist and anti-government violence is common in Russia's North Caucasus region, which includes the restive Muslim-majority regions of Ingushetia, Chechnya, Dagestan, and Kabardino-Balkaria. Islamist militants and criminal groups target Russian security forces as well as local officials.

Advice

Individuals in Chechnya are advised to remain vigilant for militant activity and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities. As a reminder, most Western governments advise against travel to Chechnya, Dagestan, and Ingushetia.