30 Nov 2023 | 01:42 PM UTC
Russia: Sporadic security alerts will likely continue nationwide through November /update 8
Sporadic bomb threats continuing across Russia as of Nov. 30. Related short-notice disruptions likely over the medium term.
Sporadic, anonymous bomb threats are continuing to prompt short-notice, short-term evacuations at transport hubs and public places across Russia as of Nov. 30. In rare occurrences, authorities have found explosive devices, although it remains unclear if these are related to the long-standing anonymous bomb threat issue. On Nov. 28, Russian authorities arrested an alleged member of the "Freedom of Russia" group, reportedly planning a bomb attack in Kazan; reports suggest that materials to build homemade explosives were found in his possession.
Telephoned and emailed threats are also regularly made against airports and specific flights, railway stations, educational establishments, shopping malls, courts of law, government facilities, critical infrastructure, and other public sites. Additionally, military registrations and enlistment offices are increasingly targeted by bomb threats following Russia's Sept. 21 partial mobilization of military reservists. No explosives have so far been found in any of these incidents, and it is unknown whether they are connected.
Disruptive hoaxes are likely to continue in the coming months. Precautionary security force reactions, including evacuations and search operations, will likely prompt short-notice and short-term business and public transport disruptions.
Anticipate short-notice transport and business disruptions after threats are made. Confirm the status of flights and rail services before checking out of hotels or departing for the airport or train station. Report any suspicious activity or objects to authorities. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel.
Anonymous bomb threats disseminated through email or phone calls have occurred frequently since September 2017, when hundreds of automated bomb threats affected 75 of Russia's 85 regions and led to the sporadic evacuation of around two million people. 2022 saw a six-fold increase in bomb threats over those made in 2021; this trend has continued through early 2023, with over 2,000 bomb threats made through January. In May, authorities in Saint Petersburg received 23 separate calls, threatening over 2,000 premises in one day.
Russia faces a moderate nationwide threat from domestic and international terrorist groups and radicalized individuals. Additionally, long-standing tensions with neighboring Ukraine escalated into conflict following a Russian invasion of that country in February 2022. In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Russian officials have increasingly taken to directly blaming Ukrainian intelligence agencies and sympathizers for the wave of bomb threats. However, little evidence has been provided for this, and no arrests have been reported.
The motive behind the threats remains unknown, and they are possibly being made for various reasons and by a variety of perpetrators who could have no link to terrorist organizations or foreign saboteurs. Authorities continue to take each incident seriously.
