He did not say where the hijackers planned to go. Chechen rebels have conducted several hijackings over the last decade. Top officials in Chechnya say they did not order the operation. This incident is not be the first time that the rebels' fight for independence has spilled over the breakaway republic's borders. Chechen separatists have carried out frequent hijackings, kidnappings and raids since 1990, when the Soviet Union was showing signs of crumbling.
Observers say hijackings are a relatively frequent occurrence in the Caucasus region and Russia.
Most end when the Russian security services seize the hijackers. Few officially verified details are currently available, but unconfirmed reports say that the hostages have been freed and three hijackers are now in custody. It is thought that several people were injured in the assault, but official confirmation concerning injures or deaths has not been received. Conflicting reports concerning casualties are presently being received. Although details still remain unclear, it is believed that they have said that they want to fly to Afghanistan, have demanded money, and want an end to the Russian military campaign in Chechnya.