Russian President Putin Assures Action Against Perpetrators of Concert Hall Massacre
In response to the tragic shooting massacre at a concert hall near Moscow, Russian authorities announced on Saturday that all four suspected gunmen have been apprehended. President Vladimir Putin vowed to pursue and punish those responsible for the attack, which has been deemed the deadliest in Russia in two decades.
Although militant group Daesh (Islamic State) claimed responsibility for the attack, there are indications that Russian investigators are exploring a potential Ukrainian connection. Despite categorical denials from Ukrainian officials asserting no involvement, Russia continues to investigate all possible leads.
A statement released by the Kremlin confirmed that President Putin was briefed by Alexander Bortnikov, the chief of the FSB security service, regarding the apprehension of the suspects, described as “four terrorists.” The authorities are actively working to identify any accomplices linked to the perpetrators.
The death toll from the assault on Crocus City Hall, located on the outskirts of Moscow, has risen to 115, according to Russia’s Investigative Committee. The assailants, dressed in camouflage attire, indiscriminately opened fire with automatic weapons on concertgoers on Friday evening.
Russian lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein revealed that the attackers attempted to flee in a Renault vehicle, which was later intercepted by police in the Bryansk region. Following a pursuit, two suspects were arrested, while the remaining two fled into a nearby forest. Subsequently, all suspects were taken into custody, as indicated by the Kremlin’s account.
During the apprehension, authorities discovered a pistol, an assault rifle magazine, and passports from Tajikistan in the suspects’ vehicle. Tajikistan, a predominantly Muslim nation in Central Asia, was formerly part of the Soviet Union.
While Daesh has claimed responsibility for the attack, investigations are ongoing to ascertain all aspects of the incident. The shooting occurred during a scheduled concert at Crocus City Hall, prompting chaos as attendees scrambled to evacuate amidst the sounds of gunfire and screams. Verified footage depicts harrowing scenes of panic and violence, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
