Tajik nationals detained in Moscow after deadly attack raises concerns of misinformation
Russians detained four men suspected of taking part in an attack near Moscow. The court decided they would be held in custody for two months. Signs of beating - bruises, mutilations - were apparent on their bodies. A CNN journalist questioned Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov about this matter. His response was brief.
25 March 2024 14:22
Many reports from the Russian media and authorities are likely untrue. These could be part of an informational war by the Russian Federation.
Four Tajik nationals were detained following an assault on Crocus City Hall near Moscow. The men appeared before the district court, which ordered their detention for two months. The trial was conducted in private.
The detainees were in a terrible condition. One of them was brought in on a wheelchair, poorly dressed. Images of another showed he had been beaten and, moreover, someone had cut off his ear. This man bore torture marks on his face, as did their third companion. These photos quickly spread online.
A CNN journalist sought comments on this issue from Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. - I have no comment on this question - was the terse reply from Vladimir Putin's spokesman.
Assault in Moscow. Four men to await trial
The district court in Moscow ruled that the four men accused of the assault on Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk would be jailed. They face terrorism charges, which in Russia can lead to life imprisonment.
Recall that the assault occurred on Friday evening (March 22). A rock band's concert was scheduled at Crocus City Hall. Just before the event, assailants barged into the venue, opening fire at random. A fire ensued, causing the roof to collapse. Consequently, at least 137 people lost their lives, and another 180 were injured.
The Islamic State of Khorasan province has taken responsibility for the assault. This terrorist group has a presence in Central Asian countries, among others. Experts believe the assault might be linked to Russia's involvement in the Syrian conflict and the actions of private military companies in Central Africa. Nevertheless, the Kremlin strives to associate the terrorist act with Ukraine.