Thousands In Manhunt For Basayev In Chechnya

Kadyrov also said Chechen security forces have routed nearly all armed militant groups in the restive republic. Former militants who have put down their arms are participating in the manhunt for Basayev, Kadyrov said.

Russian troops and their Chechen allies come under almost daily attacks by militants in Chechnya.

Over the Chechen border with Russia's southern republic of Ingushetia, two Russian special forces officers were reported on March 10 to have been severely wounded after coming under fire.

The incident took place in the village of Ordzhonikidzevksaya. The Ingush Interior Ministry says security forces are hunting down the attackers.

(Interfax, ITAR-TASS)