MOSCOW. Jan 7 (Interfax) - Kidnappings are the main problem hampering the stabilization of the situation in the Chechen republic, in the view of human rights campaigners.

"Kidnappings are still the gravest problem," Moscow Helsinki Group Chairperson Lyudmila Alexeyeva told Interfax.

Alexeyeva admitted that the rate of kidnappings in Chechnya declined in 2005. "But when people don't feel safe, they can't be happy about a high salary or a warm home. As far as there is a threat, people can't sleep well. The problem of kidnappings must be fully eradicated," Alexeyeva said. She claimed that both militants and security forces are responsible for kidnappings.

The Memorial human rights center said in a report circulated in late November, 2005 that kidnappings in Chechnya are not investigated properly. "Up to 5,000 people have disappeared without a trace during 'the second Chechen campaign'. Except for rare occasions, these crimes remain uninvestigated, and those responsible go unpunished," the report says.

The Chechen government also believes the problem of kidnappings in Chechnya has to be eradicated completely.

"We are doing all we can to put an end to these crimes. The number of kidnappings was halved in 2005. But, of course, this cannot be a reason for complacency. On the contrary, this should serve as a stimulus for stepping up the combat against the thugs," acting Chechen Prime Minister Ramzan Kadyrov said in a recent interview.

"Not a single crime involving kidnappings is ignored today. I am sure that the criminal cases on these facts will be investigated and those responsible will be punished," Kadyrov said.