Armed militants launched coordinated attacks on Orthodox churches, synagogues, and a police station in Derbent and Makhachkala on June 23. The assaults resulted in the tragic deaths of seven police officers, one priest, and a civilian in the North Caucasus region of Dagestan, Russia.
Reports indicate that at least 25 individuals sustained injuries during the attacks, though the exact location of the injured remains unclear.
In Derbent, militants armed with automatic guns initially targeted the Orthodox Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, causing panic and prompting a swift response from local law enforcement.
Tragically, a priest named Father Nikolay was fatally wounded during the assault, as reported by Shamil Khadulaev, Chairman of the Dagestan Public Monitoring Commission.
Further chaos ensued as the attackers set fire to a synagogue in Derbent before fleeing the scene. Additional reports confirm an attack on a synagogue in Makhachkala, where smoke was seen billowing from the building’s upper floors.
Militants also targeted a traffic police post, engaging officers in a gunfire exchange that was captured on video, showcasing the severity of the situation across Dagestan.
The aftermath of the attacks saw efforts to stabilize the region, with two militants confirmed dead and two others reportedly detained. A counter-terrorism operation is now in place to safeguard public welfare and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Stay tuned for updates on this evolving situation as authorities work tirelessly to restore order and address the root of these disturbing events.
