Free Republic

The damage from the actions of citizens of PRC in Primorye amounted to more than 50 million rubles. They face a lengthy imprisonment if convicted. Citizens of China are jailed before trial in Primorye for attempting to illegally export a large batch of wild animal parts, including the endangered Amur tiger, as well as firearms, ammunition and amber to the PRC, PRIMPRESS reports citing the press service of the Amur Tiger Protection Center. According to the experts, the main part of the contraband are the derivatives of at least five individuals of the Amur tiger (clad skins, 18 claws, bones...

Last Updated: Thursday, 28 April, 2005, 17:34 GMT 18:34 UK In pictures: Shaman initiation   1 of 9For the first time a public initiation has been held for a shaman (spiritual chief) in Russia's Far East. Vasily Dunkai is one of about 1,000 Udege people living in the Primorye region. 2 of 9A highlight of the ritual was Vasily Dunkai's dousing in water from three different springs. 3 of 9The water was heated over stones brought from five hills. First the stones were placed in a fire. 4 of 9During the initiation, the villagers left food at their place...