On Monday, Russia announced the conclusion of anti-terrorist operations in Dagestan following a series of attacks that occurred the day before in Makhachkala and Derbent. The attacks targeted Orthodox churches and a synagogue, resulting in the death of at least 19 people, including four civilians, according to the latest report from authorities.
In a video message published on Telegram, Sergei Melikov, the regional leader of Dagestan, confirmed that more than 15 police officers were victims of the terrorist attack. He paid tribute to their sacrifice in protecting civilians during this difficult time. Additionally, several civilians lost their lives during the attacks, including a 66-year-old Russian Orthodox Church priest in Derbent and three other individuals.
Dagestan is a predominantly Muslim region located near Chechnya and has been subject to regular anti-terrorist operations by Russian authorities. These recent attacks targeted Orthodox churches, a synagogue, and a police checkpoint, leading to an investigation into terrorist acts by the Russian Investigative Committee. However, due to the neutralization of threats to citizens’ lives and health, the operation was swiftly ended on Monday morning.
Sergei Melikov reported that six assailants had been eliminated as part of the operation and suggested that they may have planned these attacks from abroad. The motive and identity of the attackers remain unknown at this time. The Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church expressed his concerns about potential harm to interfaith peace in Russia as a result of these attacks. Meanwhile, three days of mourning have been declared in Dagestan from Monday to Wednesday to honor those who lost their lives during this tragic event.
These terrorist attacks occurred following an Islamic State attack on Crocus City Hall in Moscow earlier this year that resulted in numerous casualties. This incident raised concerns about rising Islamist terrorism within Russia’s borders. Additionally, previous riots linked to conflicts between Israel and Hamas have also taken place in this region further complicating security concerns for local residents.
Overall, these events serve as a stark reminder that terrorism remains a real threat not just for Russia but for many countries worldwide today