A devastating terrorist attack on a Moscow concert hall has resulted in many fatalities and numerous injuries, marking one of the deadliest incidents of its kind in Russia in recent years.
The Russian news agency 112, which specialises in crime reporting, put the death toll as high as 40 killed and more than 100 injured.
Gunmen dressed in combat attire initiated the assault by opening fire and triggering explosions at Crocus City Hall, located on the outskirts of the city.
READ ALSO: FG Arraigns Miyetti Allah Leader Bodejo Over Alleged Creation of Militia Group
An eyewitness said that there were “at least five” attackers and that they were “bearded”.
“They act like trained fighters. At the moment of entering the building, the guards and people standing at the door were killed. Then they blocked the main entrance.”
“The terrorists are armed with [Kalashnikov] assault rifles.
“Some carried vests with various ammunition. At least two of the attackers are carrying backpacks, possibly with Molotov cocktails.”
Images captured the concert hall consumed by flames as eyewitness videos depicted the harrowing scene of armed assailants firing automatic weapons amidst the chaos, sending panicked concert-goers scrambling for safety.
In one particularly distressing footage, three individuals clad in fatigues discharged their firearms at close range within the hall’s lobby, while reports suggested that explosives were also detonated during the attack, leading to multiple blasts.
Additional footage showcased desperate individuals seeking refuge on the roof of the burning concert hall, while others received emergency medical treatment for gunshot wounds on the streets outside the venue.
The gravity of the situation prompted swift action from local authorities, with Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin deeming the incident a “great tragedy” and mobilizing a substantial response effort, including the dispatch of over 70 ambulances to the scene.
Earlier warnings issued by Western countries, including the United States, had cautioned against public gatherings in Russia due to the threat of extremist activity, underscoring the ongoing security challenges faced by the nation.
