Four men have been charged with terrorism in connection with the deadly attack on a Moscow concert hall that killed at least 137 people on Friday. The Islamic State group (IS) claimed responsibility for the attack, but Russia has also made unsubstantiated claims of Ukrainian involvement, which Ukraine vehemently denies.
Victims Still Recovered:
Rescue efforts continue at the Crocus City Hall, with the hope of finding more survivors diminishing. Regional authorities expect the search operation to conclude by Tuesday afternoon.
Suspects Show Signs of Abuse:
The four men appeared in court on Sunday, with visible injuries raising concerns about potential torture during interrogation. Russian authorities have not addressed these allegations.
- Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev: Black eye and a torn plastic bag around his neck.
- Saidakrami Murodali Rachabalizoda: Black eye and heavily bandaged ear, reportedly partially severed during arrest.
- Shamsidin Fariduni: Face badly swollen.
- Muhammadsobir Fayzov: Unconscious upon arrival in court, wheelchair-bound, and reportedly missing an eye.
Conflicting Claims:
- Two suspects, Mirzoyev and Rachabalizoda, reportedly confessed to the attack, while Tajikistan has identified them as its citizens.
- The court ordered pre-trial detention for all four until May 22nd.
Death Penalty Debate Rekindled:
The attack has sparked renewed discussion about reinstating the death penalty in Russia, which President Peskov has not commented on.
IS vs. Russia Tensions:
- IS released a graphic video of the attack, verified by the BBC.
- The US supports the IS claim and rejects accusations against Ukraine.
- Security experts believe Russia’s role in Syria and the Chechen Wars positions it as a target for IS.
- The US suggests the attack was likely carried out by the Khorasan branch of IS (Isis-K), known for its activity in Afghanistan and Central Asia.
Unresolved Questions:
- The investigation into the attack and potential accomplices is ongoing.
- The international community awaits further evidence regarding Ukrainian involvement, which has been dismissed as “absurd” by Ukraine.
This incident highlights the ongoing threat of terrorism and the complexities of international cooperation in combating it. The attack has also reignited discussions about torture and the death penalty in Russia. With the investigation continuing, more details are likely to emerge in the coming days.
