Members of Volgograd Union of Muslims criticize SAM after arrests in Pallasovsky District

The Spiritual Administration of Muslims (SAM) of the Volgograd Region had information about the existence of a radical group in the Pallasovsky District; however, it failed to conduct explanatory work. This opinion was expressed by the "Union of Muslims of the Volgograd Region".

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that on April 8, the Russian FSB Department for the Pallasovsky District reported on the detention of five persons suspected of involvement in the "Islamic State" (IS), a banned terrorist organization.

"The Pallasovsky District has always been a problem in the region with regard to the spread of false ideology," the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent was told by Abdulla-Khadji Beta, Chairman of the Alim Council for the Volgograd Region.

According to him, the Muftiate has failed to take adequate measures in that connection.

"It's a big district, which requires very competent theologians. However, there are no any of them in the district," said the Chairman of the Alim Council.

The Muftiate had the information on "Salafi people there", the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent was told by Sultan-Khadji Abubakarov, Chairman of the "Union of Muslims of the Volgograd Region".

"We have informed the relevant authorities about those things, and they were also aware of that. We expected that something would happen. No explanatory work is being provided among the people. This suggests inactivity of the Spiritual Administration," he said.

According to Sultan-Khadji Abubakarov, more than 50 people left the region to join the IS.

Full text of the article is available on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’.