On Sunday, July 21, 2024, armed militants launched coordinated attacks on two Orthodox churches, a synagogue, and a police post in Russia’s southern republic of Dagestan. The violence resulted in the deaths of a priest and at least six police officers, with multiple injuries reported.
Details of the Attacks
According to the National Anti-Terrorist Committee, the incidents occurred in the predominantly Muslim region of Dagestan, known for its history of armed militancy. The attacks targeted various locations in two cities:
- Derbent: Militants fired on a synagogue and an Orthodox church, both of which were set ablaze.
- Makhachkala: Concurrently, a church and a traffic police post were attacked.
The authorities have declared a counter-terrorist operation in response to the incidents. The Interior Ministry of Dagestan reported that five gunmen were “eliminated” during the operation. However, the total number of militants involved remains unclear.
Casualties and Damage
Initial reports indicate varying numbers of casualties:
- Confirmed Deaths: Six police officers and a church guard were killed.
- Injuries: Approximately 13 police officers and three civilians sustained injuries. The Muftiate of Dagestan, a Muslim administrative body, reported a total of nine deaths, including seven police officers, and 25 injured individuals. The conflicting figures are under review.
The attacks have prompted a significant response from local authorities, who have initiated a criminal investigation into the terrorist acts. Russia’s state news agency RIA Novosti has reported that a Dagestani official has been detained in connection with the attacks, specifically regarding his sons’ involvement.
Ongoing Investigation
No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks. The authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the full scope of the militant network involved and to address the security concerns raised by these incidents.
FAQ
What happened in Dagestan on July 21, 2024?
Armed militants attacked two Orthodox churches, a synagogue, and a police post in Dagestan, leading to multiple deaths and injuries.
How many people were killed and injured?
At least seven people were confirmed dead, including a priest and six police officers. There were conflicting reports about the total number of casualties and injuries, with the Muftiate of Dagestan reporting nine dead and 25 injured.
What actions have been taken by authorities?
A counter-terrorist operation has been launched in response to the attacks. Authorities have reported that five militants were “eliminated” and a criminal investigation into the terrorist acts is underway.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with no immediate claims of responsibility for the attacks. A local official has been detained in connection with the attacks.
How did the attacks affect the targeted locations?
Both the church and synagogue in Derbent were set on fire, and a police post in Makhachkala was also attacked.
Are there any updates on the number of attackers?
The exact number of attackers involved is still unclear. The authorities are working to determine the full scope of the militant group responsible for the attacks.
