Five men have been arrested in connection with the murder of the mayor of the southern Russian city of Vladikavkaz. Vitaliy Karaev was gunned down outside his apartment in the North Ossetian capital as he was leaving for work last Wednesday. He had been i

Professional and business activities have been named among the possible reasons for his killing. Political motives are unlikely, according to analysts.

The most unusual theory surrounding the murder is probably one suggested by the Russian tabloid Tvoy Den. It says Karayev’s death may have been an act of revenge, carried out or ordered by local dog breeders.

The 46-year-old was one of the most prominent breeders in the Caucasus. Last year his name was linked to a bitter dispute between a North Ossetian breeder’s club and rivals from Russia’s Republic of Karachaevo-Cherkessia.

The row reportedly began during a local dog show. It claimed one man’s life and there is speculation that his friends swore to avenge his death.