Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday called for a more strict prosecution system to ensure the state's security, the Interfax news agency reported.

"There is a need for proper and undeviating prosecution against people involved in terrorists attacks, including those residing abroad," Putin said at a meeting of senior officials of the Prosecutor General's Office.

He said those involved in terrorism, including those living abroad, must be prosecuted "with strict observance of the norms of criminal legislation and proper reference to international law."

The president pointed out that a series of terrorist attacks in2004 demonstrates the necessity for a serious restructuring in the security area.

"Terrorist acts must be effectively combated and analytical and preventative work must be done," Putin said, noting that "potential conflicts can be detected at an early stage."

Meanwhile, the Chechen Interior Ministry said Russian federal armed forces and Chechen troops killed a total of 115 armed rebels during special operations last year.

In addition, 257 gunmen were detained and large amounts of armaments and ammunition were seized, the ministry said.

The year 2004 also saw a big drop in the number of kidnappings registered with security authorities, falling to 168 cases from 440 the previous year, the ministry said.

Source: Xinhua