Eleven Russians Detained In Tunisia Over Terrorism Allegations Released Without Charge.
A group of eleven Russian nationals detained in Tunisia last November on suspicion of terrorist activity have been released and are expected to return home shortly, Russian state media reported on Friday.
The individuals were apprehended near Tunisia’s border with Algeria and had been held for several months under suspicion of “involvement in terrorist activities”. However, they were never formally charged by Tunisian authorities.
While Tunisian police initially raised concerns over equipment allegedly found in the group’s possession—items which the Russian embassy in Tunis claimed “did not correspond to declared tourist purposes”—both governments have remained tight-lipped regarding the specific nature of the case.
According to Russia’s TASS news agency, the Russian embassy confirmed the group’s release and stated that travel arrangements had been made for their immediate departure. “Tickets have been purchased for them, they will leave during the day on two flights,” the embassy said.
Russian media described the group as tourists who had been visiting historical sites, including Roman monuments in the municipality of Haidra, near the Algerian border. Haidra, while not a typical stop on mainstream tourist itineraries, is known for some of the oldest Roman ruins in North Africa.
Tunisia, a North African country with rich historical and cultural attractions, has become a popular destination for Russian tourists, particularly following increased travel restrictions related to the conflict in Ukraine. The country’s visa-free access and affordability have made it an appealing option.
Despite the brief diplomatic unease surrounding the detentions, the matter now appears to have been quietly resolved. Neither the Russian nor Tunisian authorities have commented further, and the group is expected to return to Russia without facing any legal proceedings.
