Siberian Forest Fire Traps, Kills 8 Paratroopers

June 08 2012

Russia

Eight Russian air force personnel have been killed while battling a blaze in Tuva in southern Siberia, reports RIA Novosti.

Fourteen paratroopers from the Tuva airbase were drafted to try to put out a 1,235-acre (500-hectare) forest fire on Wednesday when they became trapped.

According to Russian officials, six managed to escape, but the remainder died before assistance could arrive.

The Tuva republic declared a state of emergency on June 5 with 14 fires raging over 11,290...

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