Sadulayev to lead Chechen rebels

Radical Chechen rebel warlord Shamil Basayev called on Chechens to swear loyalty to the former head of Chechnya’s Islamic Court as thei...

Radical Chechen rebel warlord Shamil Basayev called on Chechens to swear loyalty to the former head of Chechnya’s Islamic Court as their new President following the killing of rebel leader Aslan Maskhadov, according to a message posted today on a rebel website.

Basayev confirmed that according to a 2002 agreement between Maskhadov and Chechen leaders, former court chairman Abdul-Khalim Sadulayev was to succeed him, the Kavkaz-Center website said.

Maskhadov’s son Anzor said in an interview that Sadulayev’s appointment would be formally announced Thursday by Maskhadov’s spokesman abroad, Umar Khambiyev.

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‘‘Maskhadov was killed in a battle on the straight path to Allah, having traveled his portion in a worthy manner, showing all Muslims an example of a truly believing Muslim fighter, unexampled bravery, steadfastness, patience and strong faith,’’ Basayev said. —PTI

Russian helicopter crash in Chechnya kills 11

MOSCOW

: A military helicopter crashed in Russia’s rebel region of Chechnya on Thursday, killing at least 11 soldiers, local officials said. The Mi-8 Transport helicopter crashed as it flew to the south of local capital Grozny, an interior ministry spokesman said, possibly as a result of flying into power lines. ‘‘Our latest figures show 11 people died and two have been taken to hospital,’’ local Interior Ministry spokesman Ruslan Atsayev said. Separatist rebels have shot down several military aircraft in the past, but officials denied the crash was caused by firing from the ground. —Reuters

After $102 million heist, Louvre moves crown jewels to Bank of France vault

World12 hr ago

The Louvre has moved valuable treasures to the Bank of France after a daring heist exposed security flaws. The transfer of select pieces, including France's crown jewels, was under heavy police escort. The heist, in which priceless items were stolen and damaged, has sparked national outrage and embarrassment for the government.

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