KUALA LUMPUR – At least 60 people were killed after several gunmen opened fire at a sold out concert in the Russian capital earlier this morning, in an attack that left more than 100 others injured.
Media reports said the incident unfolded at Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk district, where at least four individuals clad in camouflage attire unleashed gunfire, causing chaos and devastation.
Witnesses describe scenes of horror as the concert venue, packed with attendees awaiting a performance by local rock band Piknik, became engulfed in flames, with sections of the roof collapsing, as reported by Russian state news.
Russian authorities swiftly labelled the incident as a “terrorist attack,” prompting a robust response from emergency services.
Images depict billowing smoke and flames rising from the venue, with a significant portion of the hall ablaze. Reports indicate a rapid deployment of over 70 ambulance crews, alongside special security forces dispatched to the scene.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, urged the global community to denounce the atrocity, labelling it a “monstrous crime.” She said that every possible measure is being taken to rescue those affected.
“All efforts are being thrown at saving people,” she said, as quoted by the BBC.
Expressing his condolences, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin conveyed his heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims.
Reports from Russian media indicate that 6,200 tickets had been purchased for the concert scheduled to feature the band Piknik.
Eyewitness testimonies recount moments of sheer terror, with attendees scrambling for safety amidst the sounds of gunfire and explosions.
One witness recounted seeing the assailants’ ruthless assault before being guided towards safety amid the chaos.
The international community has condemned the attack, with calls for solidarity echoing from Russia’s Foreign Ministry.
Meanwhile, White House spokesman John Kirby said the visuals of the attack were “horrible and hard to watch”.
“Our thoughts obviously are going to be with the victims of this terrible, terrible shooting attack,” he was quoted as saying.
The timing of the attack, occurring shortly after President Vladimir Putin’s re-election and amid the ongoing war with Ukraine, has raised concerns about its potential implications.
However, Ukrainian officials have distanced themselves from the incident. – March 23, 2024