Moscow, Russia – Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the attack on a concert hall that resulted in the death of over 100 people as a 'barbaric terrorist act' and pledged severe punishment for all involved.
During a public speech, Putin announced that all four gunmen were apprehended before they could escape to Ukraine.
“I am addressing you today in response to the bloody, barbaric terrorist act, which claimed the lives of numerous innocent individuals,” Putin stated in his first public comments following the attack.
“All four individuals responsible for the terrorist attack and the loss of lives have been captured. They were heading towards Ukraine, where, according to initial reports, they had an opportunity to cross the border,” stated the Kremlin leader.
Russia’s FSB security service previously stated that the attackers had been in communication with individuals in Ukraine while attempting to flee the country.
At least 115 individuals were fatally shot by armed assailants at the Crocus City Hall in a suburb on the northern outskirts of Moscow on Friday. The concert hall was also set on fire. The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the attack, although Russian authorities have not confirmed this.
“Terrorists, murderers, inhumane individuals will suffer the inevitable consequences of punishment and obscurity,” declared Putin, who designated Sunday as a day of national mourning throughout Russia.
by Agence France-Presse
