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Russian Crime Boss Extradited By Thailand Arrives In Moscow


A reputed Russian crime boss extradited by Thailand to Russia has arrived in Moscow and been handed over to authorities.

Aleksandr Matusov, 52, arrived under guard on an Aeroflot flight at Sheremetievo airport July 3 after being extradited over alleged involvement in scores of killings and other criminal activities.

Matusov was arrested by Thai investigators June 23.

A criminal network reportedly tied to Matusov -- known as the Shchyolkovo Group -- was notorious for killings, extortion, and kidnappings committed in and around Moscow and St. Petersburg from 1995 to 2009.

Russian authorities issued arrest warrants for Matusov and other gang members on charges of allegedly murdering four members of a rival gang in 1996.

Thai officials say that Matusov first entered Thailand in 2009 and left before returning on a fake Armenian passport.

Based on reporting by Interfax and ITAR-TASS

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