ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan has vehemently condemned the “heinous” attack that has left Moscow reeling in terror, following the devastating gunfire incident at a concert hall situated on the outskirts of the Russian capital.
In a resolute statement shared on X, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed his profound denunciation, declaring, “I strongly condemn the heinous attack in Moscow last night that has resulted in the loss of many precious lives.”
Furthermore, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families of the victims, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with Russia during this tumultuous period.
In tandem with the Prime Minister’s condemnation, the Foreign Office also unequivocally denounced the attack. Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch conveyed Pakistan’s deepest sympathy to the bereaved families, reiterating the nation’s staunch condemnation of the assault on a concert hall in Moscow. Baloch emphasized Pakistan’s solidarity with the Russian people and government during this harrowing ordeal.
The assault at the Crocus City Hall, situated on the outskirts of Moscow, resulted in over 60 fatalities and left more than 145 individuals wounded, with approximately 60 in critical condition. This tragic incident unfolded on Friday, targeting innocent concertgoers moments before the Soviet-era rock group “Picnic” was slated to perform to a packed house at the 6,200-seat venue.
Attributed to the militant group Daesh, this barbaric act stands as the deadliest incident in Russia since the 2004 Beslan school siege, where militants held over 1,000 hostages captive.
According to the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin remained apprised of the situation by receiving updates from security chiefs, including Alexander Bortnikov, the head of the Federal Security Service (FSB).
Russian investigators released images depicting a Kalashnikov automatic weapon, vests equipped with multiple spare magazines, and bags of spent bullet casings, providing insight into the gruesome nature of the attack and intensifying global outrage and condemnation.
