Google Translate logs expose Russian plot against relatives of Chechen opposition leader Zakaev

The investigation into a planned Russian operation revealed a plot targeting the relatives of a Chechen opposition leader. According to reports, a former FSB agent, Denis Alimov, was detained in Colombia following accusations of conspiring to kidnap or murder Russian dissidents. The US Attorney’s Office stated that Alimov, a 42-year-old individual, was arrested on February 24th under an Interpol red notice.

Prosecutors allege he participated in a scheme to harm two foreign dissidents, offering a co-conspirator, Darco Durovic, substantial financial incentives. Investigators determined that Alimov served as the coordinator for Durovic, and the pair communicated extensively about potential targets, required weaponry, and travel logistics through Google Translate. Durovic recruited a third accomplice, and discussions included financing a specialized team to locate the intended victims.

The specific relatives being targeted were identified by The Insider in collaboration with Der Spiegel as those of Akhmed Zakaev, a Chechen political figure residing in the UK and serving as the Prime Minister of Ichkheria in exile. Ichkheria, a short-lived Chechen state, was previously crushed by Russian forces during two major wars. Alimov was linked to an elite hit squad, “Centre 795,” established by the Russian General Staff in 2022.

This unit, also known as military unit 75127, reports directly to Valery Gerasimov and combines surveillance, intelligence, sabotage, and targeted killings. The case highlights how communication errors, specifically the use of Google Translate, aided investigators in uncovering the alleged conspiracy. The investigation aims to expose the actions of this russian group against the relatives of a Chechen figure.

Topics: #russian #relatives #chechen