Makhachkala, Dagestan: In a tragic escalation of violence, over 15 police officers and several civilians, including an Orthodox priest, were killed by armed militants in Russia’s southern republic of Dagestan on Sunday. Governor Sergei Melikov confirmed the casualties in a video statement early Monday.
Details of the Attacks
The coordinated attacks targeted two Orthodox churches, a synagogue, and a police post in the cities of Derbent and Makhachkala. The gunmen opened fire, causing widespread chaos and destruction. According to state media, both the church and synagogue in Derbent caught fire as a result of the attacks. Almost simultaneously, a church and a traffic police post in Makhachkala were also attacked.
Government Response and Investigation
Russia’s National Anti-Terrorist Committee has labeled the incidents as terrorist acts. Dagestan’s Interior Ministry announced that a counter-terrorist operation was underway in the region. The Anti-Terrorist Committee reported that five gunmen were “eliminated,” while Governor Melikov stated that six “bandits” had been “liquidated.” The discrepancy in numbers highlights the chaotic nature of the situation, with the exact number of militants involved still unclear.
There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attacks. Authorities have launched a criminal investigation, charging the perpetrators with terrorist acts. Law enforcement sources, cited by Russian state news agency Tass, indicated that a Dagestani official was detained over his sons’ involvement in the attacks.
Official Statements and Mourning
Governor Melikov assured residents that the situation was under control. He vowed to continue the investigation until all militant “sleeping cells” were uncovered. In his statement, Melikov suggested that the attacks might have been orchestrated from abroad, hinting at a possible connection to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, referred to by the Kremlin as “the special military operation.”
In light of the attacks, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday have been declared days of mourning in Dagestan.
Context and Previous Incidents
Dagestan, a predominantly Muslim region, has a history of armed insurgency and has seen numerous violent incidents over the years. The recent attacks are part of a disturbing trend of escalating violence. In March, gunmen attacked a concert hall in suburban Moscow, killing 145 people. An affiliate of the Islamic State group claimed responsibility, although Russian officials also attempted to link the attack to Ukraine without providing evidence, a claim that Kyiv has strongly denied.
Impact and Reactions
The latest violence in Dagestan has heightened tensions and raised concerns about the region’s stability. The attacks on religious sites underscore the militants’ intent to incite fear and division. The international community will be watching closely as Russian authorities continue their investigation and counter-terrorism operations in the region.
The families of the victims, as well as the broader community in Dagestan, are left to mourn and grapple with the aftermath of these brutal attacks. The declared days of mourning reflect the deep sorrow and loss felt throughout the region.
