The head of the police unit combatting kidnappings in the separatist Russian republic of Chechnya has died in hospital after suffering serious injuries in a bomb attack earlier in the day.

The man, General Shaid Bargishev, was reported to have lost both legs in the explosion, which occurred as he was getting into a car outside his office in the capital, Grozny.

Two bodyguards are reported to have been injured.

Chechen leaders said the attack may have been intended to deter anti-kidnapping operations, which have managed to help free several hostages over the past few days.

The BBC Moscow Correspondent says powerful Chechen warlords are believed to be involved in the lucrative kidnapping business.

Many hostages remain in captivity, including several foreigners and some Russian soldiers.