[Boundless]

> In the statement, a group called the Islambouli Brigades
> said it had five mujahedeen, or holy fighters, on board
> each aircraft. ...

And why would FIVE operators be needed for a bomb?
The shoebomber acted alone.

> Russian security officials have refused to confirm or
> comment on the statement.

And Debka (normal caveats apply) claims it was a failed
hijack attempt, with Putin's location as the target.
This is consistent with the headcount of 5.

Also some speculation that the planes might have been
shot down by Russian air defense, and if so, we won't
learn of it until the collapse of the new Russia.

[Rutles4Ever]

Five operators wouldn't be needed for a bomb. They would be needed for the hijacking, which could be aborted with a bomb detonation. It's quite possible the hijackers were confronted by a planeload of scared and furious passengers who didn't want a repeat of 9/11.

[laconic]

And they found the remains of the Chechen terrorist in the rear toilet of the TU-154? Well, that's right where they belong and I hope they stay there forever.

[whatexit]

And why would FIVE operators be needed for a bomb?

Only one bomber was needed - the others just came along for the free virgins.

[from occupied ga]

And why would FIVE operators be needed for a bomb? The shoebomber acted alone.

To carry in 5 times the amount of explosive one person can, of course.