Terror in the Russian Federation: A Case Analysis

Definition of Terrorism

Throughout the history of humanity, radical groups and organizations have attempted to influence and shift the policies of governments and agencies around the world. The terminology most often used to describe the activities and beliefs of such groups and organizations is terrorism. Terrorism is defined as premeditated, politically motivated violence perpetrated against noncombatant targets by subnational groups or clandestine agents, usually intended to influence a particular audience (CIA). The preceding definition will be the basis for the interpretation of this case analysis.

Background Information

The terrorist organization at the focus of this case analysis is the Special Purpose Islamic Regiment, or SPIR, also referred to as the al-Jihad-Fisi-Sabililah Special Islamic Regiment. This organization is a Chechen based terrorist group formed in 1996 by Arbi Barayev that was involved in an ethno-nationalist battle for the independence of the territories of Chechnya from Russian suppression for more than one hundred and fifty years (“Country Reports on Terrorism,” 2005). The heads of the organization are believed to be established at two different locations; the first location is the Urus-Martan district of Chechnya and the second location is the Pankisi Gorge in northeastern Georgia. The leader of the SPIR is now believed to be Amir Khamzat, assuming power after the death of previous SPIR leader Movsar Barayev, nephew of the group’s creator. Before his death in 2002, Barayev reported that the size of the organization was approximately four hundred active soldiers with just as many reserve soldiers willing and waiting for action (“Country Reports on Terrorism,” 2005).

General Beliefs

Members of ...

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...nation of a citizen of Alkhan-Kala, named Dzhapar Khazuyev, condemning the man as a “proven traitor.”

References

• Abdullaev, N. (2002, October 28). Barayev Points Finger at Basayev. Moscow Times, pp. 37-38.

• Armstrong, P. (1999). Conflict in Chechnya : A Background Perspective. The Journal of Conflict Studies, 1, 1-67.

• Country Reports on Terrorism 2004 (pp. 65-83). (2005). Terrorist Groups. New York: United States Department of State.

• Holley, D. (2002, October 26). Chechen Rebel’s Rise and Fall. Los Angelos Times, pp. 1-12.

• Jacinto, L. (2002). Black Widows: Hell Hath No Fury Like Chechnya’s Ruthless Widows of War. ABC News, 1, 72-94.

• Penketh, A. (1999, September 18). Young and Cruel Chechen Warlord Directing Siege. BBC, pp. 5-9.

• Smyth, P. (2000, October 25). Leader of Militant Chechens is Familiar with Terror Campaigns. The Irish Times, p. 18.