Eleven Russian citizens detained in Tunisia on terrorism-related suspicions have been released and are set to leave the country, Russian state media announced on Friday.
The group was detained last November near Tunisia’s western frontier with Algeria.
While Russian reports identified them as tourists, local authorities reportedly confiscated equipment from them that raised suspicions about their intentions, according to statements from Russia’s embassy in Tunis.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the individuals were never formally indicted.
Tunisian authorities suspected their involvement in terror-linked activities but did not press charges. Details surrounding their arrest and investigation have not been made public by either nation.
TASS reported that the Russians would depart Tunisia on Friday using two separate flights. “Their tickets are booked and they’ll be leaving today,” the embassy noted.
The group had reportedly been visiting Roman ruins in Haidra, a remote area not typically frequented by international travellers.
While Tunisia draws a large number of Russian tourists due to its low cost and visa-free entry, Haidra’s proximity to Algeria and its relative obscurity as a travel destination have sparked questions.