Russia detains man over alleged railway sabotage in Nizhny Novgorod

A 24-year-old man from Cherkessk has been detained in connection with an alleged arson attack on railway infrastructure in the Nizhny Novgorod region, Russian authorities have said.

The Transport Directorate of the Russian Interior Ministry for the Volga Federal District said the suspect was arrested following a report of a smoking relay cabinet discovered on a railway section between the Pochinki and Varya stations, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

Transport police who were dispatched to the scene reportedly found traces of flammable and lubricating substances, along with other evidence indicating deliberate ignition.

Investigators said the suspect was identified and detained shortly after the incident by officers from the criminal investigation unit of the Nizhny Novgorod transport police.

Authorities stated that the man had received instructions via a messaging application detailing how to prepare an incendiary mixture and carry out the act before allegedly setting fire to the relay cabinet.

He is now facing charges linked to terrorism-related offences and could be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

By Aghakazim Guliyev