Five Tajiks Deported From Russia: Missing Status Unknown
At least 20 people, including civilians and police officers, were killed in a series of attacks on Orthodox churches, synagogues, and a police station in Daghestan, Russia’s North Caucasus region. The attacks occurred in the cities of Derbent and Makhachkala on June 23, with at least 46 people injured, according to Russian officials.
The Regional Governor, Sergei Melikov, confirmed the death of 66-year-old Father Nikolai, who had served in the Orthodox church in Derbent for over 40 years. He also stated that six “bandits” were “liquidated” by security forces, and the security operation was declared over by June 24.
Among those detained was Magomed Omarov, the head of the Sergokala district and a member of the United Russia party. Three of the attackers killed were identified as two of Omarov’s sons and one of his nephews.
The attacks came just months after a horrific terrorist attack in Moscow where 145 people died. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks in the North Caucasus region.
The chairman of the public council of Russia’s Federation of Jewish Communities reported that synagogues were targeted in both cities, with one synagogue burned to the ground. Anti-Jewish sentiments have been a recurring issue in the region, with previous incidents of violence and protests.
In response to the attacks, Russian authorities have taken action to detain individuals suspected of financing and providing weapons to the assailants. The investigation is ongoing to determine the motives behind the attacks and to ensure the safety and security of the region.
