Moscow police strengthening security ahead of Putin inauguration

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Moscow police have stepped up security across the city in preparation for the opposition March of Millions rally on May 6 and inauguration of President-elect Vladimir Putin on May 7, as well as the May 9 Victory Day parade.

"Due to the political and sports events and the May holidays, the number of police officers on duty has been increased," RIA Novosti quoted a police source as saying.

Moscow city authorities agreed on Thursday to permit the May 6 March of Millions protest, including a march from Kaluzhskaya Square and a demonstration on Bolotnaya Square. The authorities have warned those planning unsanctioned protests that they will not be tolerated.

A day ahead of Vladimir Putin’s inauguration as Russian president on May 7, his All-Russia People's Front public movement will hold a mass rally dedicated to the first anniversary of its establishment, the organization’s website said.

Several police buses are currently parked near Revolution Square in central Moscow, and OMON riot police vehicles are on duty near the Maly Theater. Other security service trucks are parked near the Moscow Mayor's administration building, and ten others are located at Pushkin Square, which has been the scene of several opposition rallies in the last six months.

Metal barriers have been placed along Tverskaya Street, the main thoroughfare in downtown Moscow, which will be the route of the traditional May 9 Victory Parade. Large military vehicles including tanks, missile launchers and heavy guns will take part in the parade, and military aircraft will fly overhead.