Russian Major-General Mikhail Malofeyev, who was reportedly wounded and missing in a battle with Chechen rebels Thursday, was found dead Sunday, reported the Interfax news agency.

Malofeyev's body was found in the Chechen capital Grozny Sunday, the agency quoted Russian acting President Vladimir Putin's aide Sergei Yastrzhembsky as saying.

Yastrzhembsky said the body was discovered at the place of the battle where Malofeyev died several days ago. Today, after bidding farewell to the general, his remains were sent to Vladikavkaz.

Thus, the version that the general was taken prisoner falls off in full, Yastrzhembsky said. (Xinhua)