Following the tragic attack at Moscow’s Crocus City Hall concert venue, the Basmanny District Court in Moscow has charged four men in connection with the incident, which claimed the lives of over 130 people. The suspects, identified as Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev (32), Saidakrami Rachabalizoda (30), Mukhammadsobir Faizov (19), and Shamsidin Fariduni (25), all citizens of Tajikistan, faced formal charges of committing a group terrorist attack resulting in fatalities.
During the court proceedings, Mirzoyev, Rachabalizoda, and Fariduni confessed to their involvement in the attack. However, Faizov, who appeared in court in a wheelchair and visibly injured, remained silent throughout the proceedings. Reports suggest he had sustained injuries and was under medical care.
The suspects’ appearances in court raised concerns, as they appeared bruised and swollen, indicating possible mistreatment during interrogation. One of the suspects, Rachabalizoda, was observed with a heavily bandaged ear, prompting reports of alleged torture during interrogation, including the severing of an ear. However, these reports remain unverified.
The court ordered the pre-trial detention of all four suspects until May 22, marking a significant step in the legal proceedings following the attack. Meanwhile, Russian authorities have detained seven additional individuals suspected of involvement in the incident.
The attack, claimed by an affiliate of the Islamic State group, has plunged Russia into mourning, prompting a national day of mourning. Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the nation, condemning the attack and announcing the arrest of the suspects. He stated that the suspects were apprehended while attempting to flee to Ukraine, a claim vehemently denied by Kyiv.
As investigations continue into the attack, the legal proceedings against the suspects represent a crucial step towards seeking justice for the victims and holding accountable those responsible for the heinous act. The incident stands as one of the deadliest on Russian soil in recent years, ensuring the urgency of addressing terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of the nation’s citizens.