Published on: March 25, 2024 at 13:18 IST
Three out of four Accused charged with carrying out the March 23 a, attack at the Crocus City Hall, a shopping mall and music venue in Moscow, Russia in which 133 people killed, pleaded guilty to their involvement in the carnage during a court appearance on Sunday. The court has also ordered the four men, who are citizens of Tajikistan, to be held in Pre-trial custody until May 22.
Four Suspects Charged in Moscow Court for Terrorist Attack
Four suspects have been formally charged by the Basmanny District Court in Moscow for their alleged involvement in the recent terrorist attack claimed by the Islamic State-Khorasan. The attack, which occurred at Crocus City Hall and resulted in multiple fatalities, was attributed to the regional arm of the terrorist group operating in South-Central Asia, particularly Afghanistan.
The suspects, identified as Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev (32), Saidakrami Rachabalizoda (30), Mukhammadsobir Faizov (19), and Shamsidin Fariduni (25), were charged with committing a group terrorist attack resulting in death, carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Among them, Mirzoyev, Rachabalizoda, and Fariduni pleaded guilty, while Faizov appeared in court wearing a hospital gown and attended by medics due to injuries sustained.
Reports have emerged suggesting that the suspects displayed visible signs of physical abuse, including bruising and swelling, raising concerns about possible torture during interrogation. Allegations surfaced in Russian media that one suspect had an ear cut off during questioning, although these reports remain unverified.
Footage aired by Russian state-run Channel One television showed the suspects being detained in Khatsun village near the Russia-Belarus border. During interrogation, one suspect admitted to participating in the attack, stating that he did so for monetary gain.
Additional videos shared on Russian Telegram channels depicted a man emerging from a forest with blood covering his face, possibly from an ear injury. In another video, the same individual is seen answering questions while kneeling.
The Islamic State released a photo and bodycam footage purportedly depicting the Crocus City Hall shooting, described as the deadliest attack in Russia in two decades.
The formal charges and ongoing investigation underscore the gravity of the situation and the need for swift and thorough legal proceedings to address acts of terrorism and ensure justice for the victims and their families.