Suspected Gunmen
In a shocking turn of events, the Kremlin revealed on Saturday that authorities had apprehended 11 individuals, including four suspected gunmen, in connection with a devastating shooting rampage at a concert hall near Moscow.
The tragic incident resulted in the loss of at least 143 lives, marking it as the deadliest attack in Russia in two decades.
According to reports by Reuters, militant group Daesh claimed responsibility for the attack, igniting fears of terrorism. However, amidst the chaos, there were hints of a possible Ukrainian connection, although Ukrainian officials vehemently denied any involvement.
A statement issued by the Kremlin disclosed that President Vladimir Putin was briefed by Alexander Bortnikov, the chief of the FSB security service, regarding the arrests.
Among the detained were “four terrorists,” as described in the statement, and efforts were underway to identify any accomplices linked to the perpetrators.
The Investigative Committee of Russia confirmed the grim escalation of the death toll, which surged to 115 victims from the assault at Crocus City Hall, situated on the outskirts of Moscow.
Camouflage-clad gunmen indiscriminately opened fire on concertgoers with automatic weapons during the horrific incident.
Russian lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein provided additional details, revealing that the assailants fled in a Renault vehicle, prompting a pursuit by law enforcement.
Two suspects were apprehended following a car chase, while two others sought refuge in a nearby forest before being later captured.
Incriminating evidence, including a pistol, an assault rifle magazine, and passports from Tajikistan, was recovered from the vehicle.
Tajikistan, a former Soviet republic, added another layer of complexity to the investigation due to its predominantly Muslim population.
The harrowing accounts of witnesses depicted scenes of panic and chaos as gunfire erupted within the concert hall.
Videos captured frantic attempts to flee the premises as screams echoed amidst the gunfire. The tragedy has shaken the nation, leaving scars that will endure for years to come.
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