Recent Terror Attack in Moscow
Authorities in Russia and Turkey have taken significant actions following the recent terrorist attack in Moscow, which resulted in a tragic loss of lives.
Moscow Terror Attack
Russian authorities have detained 11 individuals in connection with the terrorist attack that occurred on Friday, claiming the lives of at least 139 people.
Turkish Nationwide Raids
Following reports that two alleged perpetrators entered Russia from Istanbul, Turkish authorities have detained nearly 150 suspected Islamic State militants in nationwide raids. The raids were conducted in 30 cities, resulting in the detention of 147 individuals with alleged links to the Islamic State group. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the confiscation of a large amount of foreign currency, organizational documents, and digital material during these raids.
Detained Suspects from Istanbul
Two of the individuals detained in connection with the Moscow attack, Tajik nationals Rachabalizoda Saidakrami and Shamsidin Fariduni, reportedly traveled from Turkey. They were able to freely travel between Russia and Turkey as there was no warrant for their arrest. Fariduni entered Turkey on February 20 and returned to Russia via Istanbul airport on March 2, while Saidakrami arrived in Istanbul on January 5 and returned to Moscow on March 2.
According to Turkish officials, both individuals became radicalized in Russia despite spending a short amount of time in Turkey. The responsibility for the attack was claimed by the Islamic State, which also released graphic videos of the gunmen inside the venue.
Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged on Monday that “radical Islamists” were behind the attack, although he continued to assert a link to Ukraine.