The death toll from Friday’s tragic mass shooting in Moscow has been revised significantly higher, as stated by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
During a televised address to the nation, Putin disclosed that the toll now stands at 133 victims in the brutal attack at Crocus City Hall, a concert venue located on the outskirts of Moscow.
Putin drew parallels between the shooters and Nazis, describing the attack as organized and targeting Russian citizens, including children.
Although ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attack, President Putin squarely placed the blame on Ukrainian officials, accusing them of facilitating the perpetrators’ entry into Ukraine.
Vladimir Putin Reports Death Toll of 133 in Moscow Concert Hall Shooting (Credits: Al Jazeera)
An anonymous United States official, speaking to The Washington Post, expressed no doubts regarding the Islamic State’s claim.
Videos from the tragic event circulated widely, depicting harrowing scenes of death and destruction inside the music hall. People sought refuge behind chairs as gunshots reverberated through the building. Initial estimates had placed the death toll above 40.
Explosives were reportedly deployed during the attack, leading to a fire engulfing the entire building.
In the aftermath of Putin’s recent election victory, officials in Western countries cautioned their citizens against attending large public gatherings this month, citing the possibility of terror attacks.
Police detained at least one individual last night, captured on video undergoing a frisk against a wall with his hands raised. The total number of detainees and their involvement in the mass shooting remains unclear.
Numerous individuals sustained critical injuries during the shooting, and Russia’s Investigative Committee anticipates that the death toll will continue to climb.
