Attacks in Dagestan Leave Trail of Grief: Priest Martyred, Civilians and Officers Killed

OCP News Service – 24/06/2024

Moscow- Russia: On June 23, 2024, plunged Dagestan into chaos as a series of seemingly coordinated terror attacks struck the region. Gunmen targeted religious sites and a police post, leaving a trail of death and destruction.

The attacks began in Derbent, a historic city known for its religious diversity. Orthodox churches and a synagogue became the targets of automatic gunfire. According to local authorities, one church, Holy Protection Church, was set ablaze during the attack. This fire tragically claimed the life of a beloved priest, Archpriest Nikolai Kotelnikov, who had served the Church for 40 years, beginning even in Soviet times.

The violence then spread to Makhachkala, the regional capital, where a police post was attacked.

While the exact number of casualties remains unclear, reports suggest over a dozen people were killed, including law enforcement officers, civilians, and Archpriest Kotelnikov. Authorities have confirmed that six attackers were “liquidated” by security forces.

The motive behind the attacks remains under investigation. However, Russia’s Investigative Committee has labeled them acts of terrorism. Law enforcement agencies suspect the attackers were affiliated with an “international terrorist organization,” though no group has claimed responsibility.

This attack marks a dark day for Dagestan, a region with a history of sectarian violence. The targeting of religious sites, particularly Orthodox churches, is seen as a deliberate attempt to stoke interfaith tensions.

Local officials have urged residents to remain calm and vigilant. Security across the region has been tightened, with increased police presence at religious institutions and public places.

The international community has condemned the attacks. Leaders have offered condolences to the victims’ families, including Archpriest Kotelnikov’s wife, three children, and grandchildren. They called for those responsible to be brought to justice.

This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against violent extremism. As Dagestan mourns its losses, the investigation into these attacks continues, with the hope of preventing future acts of terror.

This attack is not the first to target religious figures in Dagestan. In 2018, on Forgiveness Sunday, a terrorist attack claimed the lives of five women.

Source:

OCP News Service