DHAKA: Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced the creation of a new National Guard, which he said would fight terrorism and organized crime.

The force will be formed of interior ministry troops and led by Putin’s former bodyguard, Viktor Zolotov, who will report directly to the president, says the BBC.

Putin’s spokesman said the force could be used to maintain public order.

But Dmitry Peskov denied its creation was linked to elections in September. Some critics say Putin fears unrest.

Putin made the announcement during a meeting with key security officials at the Kremlin. ‘The decisions have been taken, we are creating a new federal body of executive power,’ he said.

He also announced that Russia's drug control agency and federal migration service would become part of the interior ministry’s remit.

BDST: 2207 HRS, APR 06, 2016
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