Kidnapped Russian oil boss freed

A top executive of a major Russian oil company kidnapped nearly two weeks ago has been freed.

Moscow regional officials said that Sergey Kukura - one of Lukoil's vice-presidents responsible for its finances - had gone home apparently tired but unhurt.

Mr Kukura is said to be powerful and immensely rich

Mr Kukura, 48, was abducted early in the morning on 12 September on his way to work by masked men carrying Kalashnikov rifles.

The men allegedly handcuffed Mr Kukura's bodyguard and the driver of his Mercedes and drove off with him in another car.

Lukoil offered $1m for his release but the kidnappers later demanded around $6m.

It was unclear whether a ransom had actually been paid.

Interfax news agency said investigators were on their way to Mr Kukura's home to question him.

Low profile

The kidnapping of such a senior executive was unprecedented in Russia and sent shockwaves across the Russian business community.

Mr Kukura, who has held his current post since 1996, is a top petroleum expert and had access to "confidential information, including state secrets," according to Lukoil.

As chief financial officer at Lukoil, Mr Kukura is a powerful figure and is said to be immensely rich.

But the BBC's James Schofield in Moscow says he maintains a low profile and is not involved in politics. He also plays no significant role in other businesses.

Lukoil accounts for more than 20% of Russia's oil exports - the state owns about 14% of the company.