Anzor Shkhanukov, the Imam of the "Mansour" Mosque Nalchik, who was beaten up near his house, said that earlier threats against him were posted on one of the websites.
The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that in the evening on January 31, Anzor Shkhanukov, the Imam of the "Mansour" Mosque, was beaten up by unidentified young men. With numerous bruises and traumas, he was taken to hospital; and after medical examination he was sent to outpatient treatment.
On February 1, Anzor Shkhanukov said that the incident is related to his professional activities. "I don't know who is behind the attack; I have no enemies and no open conflict with anyone; but some time ago, one of the websites posted unflattering things about me and threats. Now, this site is already closed. I can associate the attack on me with my professional activities," the "Islam News" quotes the Imam as saying.
Shkhanukov has noted that in the near future a gathering of Muslims may be held in Nalchik, where believers are going to discuss the incident.
According to Aslan Gedgafov, the Imam of the Grand Mosque of Nalchik, Anzor Shkhanukov is highly respected by Muslims, including young people; and the attack on him could be a provocation.