10:54, 17 October 2005

Official killed civilian numbers lower

Nine civilians were killed during the rebel attack on Nalchik according to more accurate information, Jamilia Khagarov, press secretary for the president of Kabardino-Balkaria, said. Earlier, there were reports about 12 killed civilians.

"The matter is that three military men were in civilian clothes. Therefore, they were first thought to be ordinary citizens," said Ms Khagarov referring to forensic examination information. Thus, according to her, there are only nine civilians among the victims. Seven of them have been identified by their relatives, and two are not yet identified, RIA Novosti reports.

A formation of several hundred people attacked buildings of law enforcement and security agencies in the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria at 9.00 am on 13 October, Caucasian Knot's correspondent reported earlier. Combats were under way in all districts of the city.

Nalchik casualties
Civilians may be presented as rebels