Colonel Vladimir Zaitsev of the KGB, nicknamed the "terror of spies," has died

The legendary "terror of spies" has passed away - KGB Colonel Vladimir Zaitsev died at the age of 78. The sad news was reported by the press service of the international association of veterans of the "Alpha" anti-terror unit.

"Vladimir Nikolaevich served in the state security system for over twenty years, since 1972, becoming a professional of the highest class. The press dubbed him the 'terror of spies'," the statement says.

It is noted that Zaitsev also participated in hostage rescue operations, in particular - in the operation in Tbilisi, where terrorists held airliner passengers captive.

The colonel was the recipient of numerous state awards, including the Orders of the Red Star, the Red Banner, and "For Personal Courage".