Extremist groups are likely to use social unrest about the after-affects of the world economic crisis for radical activities, a top police officer said on Thursday.

Russia was one of the countries worst hit by the global economic downturn, although prompt anti-crisis measures by the government helped to avert mass social unrest.

Deputy Interior Minister Mikhail Sukhodolsky made clear the threat from extremist activity was not over yet.

"Under current conditions, leaders of radical organizations keep aggravating the situation, trying to hold mass worker's rights protests, using them as a means of expressing their political views," the ministry press office quoted him as saying.

He also warned that the forthcoming World War II Victory Day celebrations in May could pose an opportunity for extremist organizations to express their views and positions. Such activities, he said, could harm Russia's international image.

MOSCOW, April 15 (RIA Novosti)