On March 24, 2024, Russia has charged four men for attacking a Moscow concert hall and killing at least 137 people. The suspects, identified as Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, Saidakrami Murodali Rachabalizoda, Shamsidin Fariduni, and Muhammadsobir Fayzov, were brought into a Moscow court, where they were charged with committing an act of terrorism.
The attack, carried out by the Islamic State group, occurred at Crocus City Hall. Russian officials have claimed Ukrainian involvement, although Kyiv has denied any connection to the incident.
The suspects appeared in court with visible signs of physical abuse, with reports suggesting they were subjected to brutal interrogation methods. They will be held in pre-trial detention until at least May 22.
The attack took place at the Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, where four gunmen opened fire on concert-goers and set fires that caused the venue to collapse. Russian authorities reported 137 fatalities and over 100 injuries.
After the attack, IS-K released graphic footage of the incident, which has been verified as authentic. The United States has stated that IS bears sole responsibility for the attack and has rejected any claims of Ukrainian involvement.
The US had previously warned of a potential attack in Russia targeting large gatherings, but the Kremlin dismissed these warnings as propaganda. IS-K has targeted Russia in the past due to various reasons, including Russia’s role in Syria and its history in Chechnya and Afghanistan.
IS-K has been active in Afghanistan and Central Asia, and has been responsible for deadly attacks, including suicide bombings at Kabul airport during the US withdrawal in 2021. The group frequently criticizes President Vladimir Putin in its propaganda.