Russia tightens security during Easter celebrations

More than 100,000 police and 3,500 interior troops will ensure public security in Russia during Easter festivities over the weekend, the Interior Ministry said on Saturday.

According to estimates, about 5 million Russians will attend Easter vigils in 9,000 cathedrals, churches and monasteries and take part in sacred processions around the country on April 3-4.

"Our priority is to take all measures to prevent acts of terrorism or extremism during the celebrations," the ministry said in a statement.

"All public places hosting Easter celebrations will be inspected by bomb experts and K-9 units prior to scheduled festive events," the statement said.

Security measures in Moscow and other large cities will be especially tight following recent terrorist attacks in Moscow subway.

On March 29, twin blasts in Moscow's Lubyanka and Park Kultury subway stations occurred during the morning rush hour, leaving at least 40 people dead and dozens injured.

Chechen militant leader Doku Umarov claimed responsibility on Wednesday for the metro attacks, saying in a video message that the attacks were retaliation for operations carried out by federal security forces. He also pledged further attacks.

MOSCOW, April 3 (RIA Novosti)