Moscow, Mar 23 (UNI) The toll in the Moscow City Hall concert shooting has risen to 143, while over 100 were left injured in the worst terror attack in Russia which received messages of condolences and solidarity from several foreign leaders, including India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The law enforcement authorities have arrested 11 people, including the 4 attackers who stormed the Crocus City Hall concert venue at Krasnogorsk on the outskirts of Moscow last night and indiscriminately showered bullets and other deadly ammunition on the common people present there for enjoyment.
The four men in army camouflage were caught on camera firing at people randomly, even from point-blank range and throwing explosives around, even as the citizens were seen trying to escape being targeted.
The terrorists also set the building on fire, using some inflammable material, and this caused its collapse.
The firing, blaze and the building collapse caused many deaths and injuries.
According to the latest media reports, the death toll has risen to 143 and is expected to go up further as over 100 are still hospitalised in injured condition and the debris of the building is being cleared.
ISIS has already claimed responsibility for the horrific attack.
The Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia has said 11 people, including the 4 attackers, have been arrested in connection with the assault.
A video on social media showed one of the four arrested terrorists telling his interrogators that the attackers hailed from Tajikistan and had arrived from Turkey.
The terrorist, born in September, 1998, is seen telling the interrogators that he carried out the horrendous attack for money.
He was promised 500,000 Rubles by some “unknown” people and he had already received one-half of the amount, according to the terrorist.
The weapons were also provided by those “unknown” people who approached him when he was “listening” to Islamic verses on Telegram, the terrorist claims.
The gruesome attack was condemned by many leaders and countries across the world.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while condemning the “heinous terrorist attack”, said India stands in solidarity with the government and the people of the Russian Federation in this hour of grief.
"We strongly condemn the heinous terrorist attack in Moscow. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims. India stands in solidarity with the government and the people of the Russian Federation in this hour of grief," PM Modi wrote on X.
Chinese President Xi Jinping extended condolences to Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying he was shocked to learn that a serious terrorist attack occurred at a concert hall in Russia's Moscow Oblast, causing heavy casualties.
Xi, on behalf of the Chinese government and the Chinese people, expressed his deep condolences to the victims, and extended his sincere sympathy to the injured and the bereaved families, according to State-run Xinhua News Agency.
He emphasized that China opposes all forms of terrorism, strongly condemns terrorist attacks, and firmly supports the Russian government's efforts to maintain national security and stability.
Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud also sent messages of condolences to the Russian leaders.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the heinous attack.
"I strongly condemn the heinous attack in Moscow last night that has resulted in the loss of many precious lives. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. Pakistan stands with Russia at this difficult time," Sharif posted on X.
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