A police operation near the Russian Embassy two days before Independence Day led

to the arrest of 35 alleged criminals.

Six of the accused are said to be wanted by police in connection with around 20 armed

robberies in the capital in which 15 motorbikes and several domleungs of gold were

stolen.

Nine others were charged with assisting in the crimes by providing accommodation,

motorbikes and weapons.

The remaining suspects have also been linked to other crimes including the carrying

of illegal weapons, say police.

Five of the offenders are soldiers.

Police also confiscated four AK-47 rifles, one carbine, one Luger P08 pistol, one

hand-grenade and two motorbikes.

The raid was carried out under instructions from the Ministry of National Security.