A devastating attack at Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, Moscow region, has resulted in the confirmed deaths of at least 93 individuals, including children, with fears that the death toll may escalate further during ongoing investigations.
The Russian foreign ministry has strongly condemned the incident, labeling it a “terrorist attack.” Reports indicate that four assailants, dressed in camouflage attire, carried out the attack in the northwest suburb of Krasnogorsk.
The tragedy unfolded as the venue was preparing to host a rock concert, drawing over 6,000 attendees for a performance by the band Picnic. Gunmen stormed the venue, targeting the foyer before entering the theatre where the concert was to take place. Fortunately, members of the band Picnic escaped unharmed.
Shockingly, the attackers reportedly used a flammable substance to ignite a fire within the concert hall, trapping people inside as the flames engulfed the building and caused part of the roof to collapse.
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While an unverified online statement attributed the attack to the militant group Islamic State, US officials had previously warned Russia about potential attacks targeting large gatherings in Moscow.
Following the incident, Russian state media reported the detention of four individuals near the border with Ukraine in the Bryansk region, suspected of involvement in the Crocus City Hall shooting. However, Ukraine has vehemently denied any involvement, with presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak emphasizing that Ukraine will respond decisively to any threats.
Ukrainian military intelligence spokesman Andriy Yusov suggested that the attack may have been a deliberate provocation orchestrated by Russian special services.
SOURCE: BBC
