GG News Bureau
Moscow, 23rd March. More than 60 individuals were killed and around 115 others were injured after gunmen opened fire at a concert hall in Moscow, Russian authorities reported. This number is higher than the previous estimate of 40 casualties.
Russia’s Health Minister, Mikhail Murashko, stated that 115 people were taken to the hospital, including five children, with one child in critical condition. Of the 110 adult patients, 60 were in serious condition.
The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that their fighters targeted a large gathering on the outskirts of Moscow and safely retreated to their bases.
The attackers, dressed in camouflage uniforms, entered the building, opened fire, and threw grenades or incendiary bombs. Videos showed flames and black smoke coming from the hall. Three helicopters were used to extinguish the fire by dumping water on the concert hall, which can accommodate several thousand people and has hosted renowned international artists.
Many people sought refuge behind seats in the hall or tried to escape to the basement or roof to avoid the gunfire. The emergencies ministry announced that the fire had been contained shortly after midnight.
The European Union, France, Spain, and Italy, along with other countries, condemned the attack. The US described the attack as terrible and stated that there was no immediate connection to the conflict in Ukraine.
Ukraine’s presidency denied any involvement in the attack, with military intelligence accusing Russia of provocation and alleging that Moscow’s special services were behind the incident.
Two weeks before the attack, the US embassy had warned of the risk of extremists targeting large gatherings in Moscow, including concerts.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin is receiving regular updates on the shooting at the Crocus City Hall concert venue near Moscow.
Putin expressed his wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured individuals. He also thanked the doctors for their efforts, as stated by Russian news agencies quoting Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India condemned the terrorist attack in Moscow, expressing solidarity with the Russian government and people. He posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) that India stands with the families of the victims during this tragic time.
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