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FBI, Czech Police Arrest Alleged Russian Hacker Linked to US Attacks

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Image made from video of hacker's arrest in Czech Republic, Oct. 19, 2016.
Image made from video of hacker's arrest in Czech Republic, Oct. 19, 2016.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, working with Czech police, arrested a Russian citizen in Prague on Wednesday in connection with attempted cyber-attacks against the United States.

Last week, the Obama administration formally accused the Russian government of hacking U.S. institutions in an attempt to influence the upcoming presidential election, though police gave no indication the arrested man was connected with the election hacking claims.

Without going into further detail, Czech police spokesman David Schon said the aim of the operation was a Russian citizen and that it was carried out successfully.

WATCH: Video of hacker arrest

Prague Police Detain Russian Suspected of Hacking in US
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A statement posted on the police website said the suspect was detained at a hotel in Prague. Police said he collapsed during the arrest and was given first aid before being transported to a hospital.

The statement said a Czech court will decide whether the suspect is extradited to the United States, though no timetable was given.

Russia has been accused of trying to aid Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump over rival Hillary Clinton after embarrassing emails from the Democratic National Committee released earlier this year led to the resignation of leader Debbie Wasserman-Schultz.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has denied any involvement in the hacks.

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