Russian troops in Tajikistan recalled to barracks

Russian troops stationed in Tajikistan have been recalled to barracks after the Tajik opposition announced it was withdrawing from the republic's joint government-opposition National Reconciliation Commission (NRC), the Russian news agency Interfax reported on Friday.

The 201st Motor-Rifle Division, which forms the core of the CIS peacekeeping force in the republic, has mounted additional guards on the approaches to the division's base in Dushanbe and placed armour in its surrounding area.

A spokesman at the headquarters of the CIS peacekeeping force said the measure was taken in connection with Thursday's announcement by the leader of the Islamic-led United Tajik Opposition, Sayed Abdullo Nuri saying the opposition is suspending participation in the NRC.

The agency added that the situation was quiet in Dushanbe, with public transport, shops and utilities functioning normally.

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