Vladivostok residents try to get their mayor back in office

In the city of Vladivostok in Russia’s Far East, 500 people have been rallying in protest against the temporary removal of the city’s mayor. Vladimir Nikolayev is suspected of abuse of power and the embezzlement of at least $US 290,000.

The Primorsky region's prosecutor has also launched an inquiry against Vladimir Nikolayev’s deputy, who is suspected of misappropriating budget funds.

The accused civil servant claims the accusations are a “cynical and groundless” attempt to drive him out of his post.