5 Sep 2012 19:00

Probe launched into vandalized cross in Altai region

GORNO-ALTAISK. Sept 5 (Interfax) - The authorities in Russia's Altai region have launched a vandalism inquiry into the desecration of a memorial cross near the village of Topuchaya in the Shebalino district, regional prosecutors told Interfax on Wednesday.

The Altai prosecutor has taken charge of the criminal inquiry, the statement said

It was found that in the early morning hours of Tuesday vandals knocked down and chopped the memorial cross installed in May to designate a place where a chapel will be built in memory of the builders of the Chuisky Highway.

Police are now working to identify the persons involved in the crime and are probing various theories.

The case will be investigated by the Ongudaisky inter-municipal police department.