Security forces reported the killing of a saboteur in Nalchik.

A Nalchik resident who was preparing to blow up a section of the gas distribution system was killed during an attempted arrest, security forces stated.

According to security forces, "an act of sabotage organized by Ukrainian special services was prevented" in Kabardino-Balkaria. As a result of the measures taken, a Nalchik resident who, on orders from his supervisor, was planning to blow up a section of the gas distribution system was identified.

"The man underwent training at one of the camps of the Ukrainian Armed Forces' special operations forces, after which he returned to Russia via third countries," RIA Novosti reported today, citing security officials.

"During an attempt to detain him, the saboteur offered armed resistance and was destroyed by return fire. He was in possession of an improvised explosive device with a yield of up to 5 kilograms of TNT equivalent, a Ukrainian-made Fort assault rifle, and ammunition for it," the FSB stated.

"No law enforcement officers or civilians were injured during the clash," the agency's statement said.

The Investigative Unit of the FSB Directorate for Kabardino-Balkaria has opened a criminal case under Part 2 of Article 281 of the Russian Criminal Code (preparation for sabotage) 1 .

"Caucasian Knot" also reported that in mid-November, a resident of Kabardino-Balkaria was detained on suspicion of treason and preparing sabotage in the republic.