Russia Arrests Concert Hall Gunmen As Death Toll Rises To 115

Russia Arrests Concert Hall Gunmen As Death Toll Rises To 115

Russia has announced the arrest of 11 individuals, including four gunmen, in connection with the attack on a concert hall in Moscow, claimed by the Islamic State, as the death toll climbs to 115…..READ ALSO Fani-Kayode Condemns Terrorist Attack On Moscow, Extends Condolences To Putin, Russia

The gunmen, clad in camouflage, opened fire at the crowded Crocus City Hall in Moscow’s northern suburb of Krasnogorsk on Friday evening, just before a concert by the Soviet-era rock band Piknik. This marks the deadliest attack in Russia in at least a decade.

While Russian President Vladimir Putin has not publicly commented on the attack, the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has reported that some perpetrators have fled towards the Russia-Ukraine border, suggesting “appropriate contacts” within Ukraine. However, no evidence linking Ukraine to the attack has been provided.

The FSB has informed President Putin about the arrests, with ongoing efforts to recover bodies from the burnt-out venue and treat the injured. The death toll is expected to rise further, with more than 100 individuals still hospitalized.

Investigators have determined that fatalities resulted from both gunshot wounds and smoke inhalation after a fire broke out in the venue. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that its fighters targeted “a large gathering” on the outskirts of Moscow.

Global condemnation has poured in, with world leaders expressing solidarity with Russia in the aftermath of the tragedy. Major events across the country have been canceled, and residents have formed long queues to donate blood.

The attack has also prompted scrutiny of Russia’s intelligence services, particularly in light of prior warnings from Western countries about potential terrorist threats in Moscow. Despite these warnings, President Putin dismissed them as propaganda just days before the attack.

The investigation into the attack and the arrests made by Russian authorities continue as the nation mourns the loss of lives in this devastating incident.