FBI creating special unit to co-ordinate Russia probe

The FBI is planning to create a special section to co-ordinate its investigation of Russian activities designed to influence the 2016 presidential election, Financial Times reports with reference to a person familiar with the plan. 

The move is also aimed at giving FBI director James Comey greater visibility into the investigation’s granular details. “It’s meant to surge resources,” one FBI agent said. 

Creation of the temporary unit mirrors the bureau’s approach to other sensitive investigations, including the WikiLeaks disclosure of classified US government documents and Hillary Clinton’s use of a private email server while secretary of state. 

The FBI generally prefers to run investigations from one of its 56 field offices, but the high-profile nature of the sprawling Russia inquiry is seen as requiring a central manager, according to current and former officials. 

The bureau is expected to recall from the field an FBI counter-intelligence specialist to oversee the squad of about 20 agents, which is to begin work next month.