15:21, 10 February 2004

Suicide bombing is main theory behind Moscow metro blast

The main theory behind Friday's explosion on the Moscow metro is a suicide bombing, reported the Federal Security Service (FSB) deputy director, Vyacheslav Ushakov.

"This terrorist act is similar to last year's explosion on the train in Yessentuki," he said.

He announced that the Federal Security Service wanted tougher punishment for terrorism. Ushakov said he personally supported the idea of lifting the death penalty moratorium for terrorists. This opinion is shared by his colleagues, he said.

Ushakov also suggested studying the experience of the United States. The United States drafted a national patriotic platform after the notorious terrorist act of September 11 and afterwards enacted it into law.

That law gives unprecedented rights to the secret services for the efficient fight against terrorism, Ushakov said.

Editors note: See also the article "Death toll from Moscow metro blast reaches 39".

Source: Interfax News Agency