The death toll from the recent Moscow concert hall attack climbed to 140 on Wednesday as another victim succumbed to injuries in the hospital, according to Russian officials. This tragic development adds to the gravity of the deadliest terrorist incident on Russian soil in nearly two decades.
Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko confirmed the latest fatality, stating that the victim was one of five individuals still hospitalized in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, the victim’s condition deteriorated, highlighting the severity of the injuries sustained during the attack.
In total, 80 individuals injured in the assault remain hospitalized, while 205 others have sought outpatient medical assistance, underscoring the widespread impact of the violence that unfolded at Crocus City Hall, a prominent entertainment venue on the outskirts of Moscow.
The attack, which occurred last Friday night, involved at least four gunmen armed with automatic rifles who opened fire on concertgoers and set the venue ablaze. This orchestrated violence resulted in a devastating loss of lives and injuries among the attendees.
An affiliate of the Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the attack, a claim supported by U.S. intelligence sources. French President Emmanuel Macron also indicated that intelligence pointed to an IS entity’s involvement in the incident.
Following the attack, Russian security forces swiftly responded, arresting 11 individuals, including four suspected gunmen identified as Tajik nationals. These suspects appeared in court facing terrorism charges, exhibiting signs of physical trauma suggesting mistreatment during their detention.
While Russian officials have implicated Western and Ukrainian involvement in the attack, allegations vehemently denied by Kyiv, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko offered an alternative explanation regarding the suspects’ intended destination.
The Islamic State group’s history of targeting Russia, coupled with recent threats from President Putin about potential future attacks and allegations of Western interference, has heightened concerns about ongoing security challenges in the region.
As investigations into the attack continue, questions surrounding intelligence sharing, security lapses, and geopolitical tensions remain central to understanding the broader implications of this tragic event and its aftermath.
Sources By Agencies
