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Former Russian Legislator Detained In Kyrgyzstan


(RFE/RL) January 18, 2007 -- Former Federation Council member Igor Izmestev was detained on January 16 in Kyrgyzstan's capital, Bishkek, Russia's "Kommersant" daily reported today.


The newspaper quoted Izmestev's lawyer, Vladimir Sementsov, as saying his client was arrested upon his arrival at Bishkek airport by Russian and Kyrgyz security officers.


Izmestev had reportedly flown to the Kyrgyz capital from Geneva to meet with acting Prime Minister Feliks Kulov.


Sementsov told "Kommersant" that his client is now in custody in Moscow.


A spokesman for the Kyrgyz Prosecutor-General's Office, Toktogul Kakchekeev, confirmed Izmestev's arrest.


A representative from Bashkortostan at the Federation Council, the upper chamber of Russia's legislature, Izmestev resigned on December 13 amid allegations that he was involved in dubious business activities.


Izmestev has denied the accusations brought against him. "Kommersant" reported that Russian investigators also suspect him of being involved in a murder.


("Kommersant," AKIpress, Interfax, 24.kg)

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