Russia: Sporadic security alerts continue across Russia as of Dec. 20 /update 3

Event

Sporadic, anonymous bomb threats are continuing to prompt short-notice, short-term evacuations at transport hubs and public places across Russia as of Dec 20. Telephoned and emailed threats are also regularly made against airports, railway stations, educational establishments, shopping malls, courts of law, government facilities, critical infrastructure, and other public sites. No explosives have so far been found in any of the incidents and it is unknown whether they are all connected.

Although no bombs have been found in connection with the threats, Russia faces a moderate threat nationwide from domestic and international terrorist groups, as well as radicalized individuals; authorities take each incident seriously. The motive behind the threats is unknown, and they are possibly being made for a variety of reasons and by a variety of perpetrators, who could have no link to terrorist organizations. Disruptive hoaxes are likely to continue in the coming months. Precautionary security force reactions, including evacuations and search operations, are likely to continue to prompt short-notice and short-term business and public transport disruption.

Context

Anonymous bomb threats disseminated through email or phone calls have become more frequent since September 2017, when hundreds of automated hoax calls affected 75 of Russia's 85 regions and led to around two million people being sporadically evacuated.

Advice

Anticipate short-notice transport and business disruptions. Confirm the status of flights and rail services before checking out of hotels or departing for the airport or train station. Report any suspicious activity or objects to authorities. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel.