( RIA Novosti ) - An explosion in Makhachkala, the capital of Daghestan, that killed a local deputy mufti was aimed at destabilizing the situation in the republic, Mufti Magomed Albogachiyev said Friday.
Urmagomed Ramazanov's vehicle was blown up late Thursday. The explosion also killed a passenger in the car and injured another.
"This is a great tragedy," Albogachiyev said. "We are filled with indignation and express our condolences to his family and friends."
Ramazanov had never been involved in business, but used to comment extensively on religious issues and made frequent appearances on the TV and the press.
Mufti Albogachiyev expressed his concern at the recent increase in murders of spiritual figures and law enforcers in the North Caucasus.
"Someone is benefiting from destabilizing the situation," the mufti said. "They do not want stability and peace to reign in the Caucasus."