Dagestan, 24 June 2024 — A group of gunmen attacked Jewish synagogues, Orthodox churches, and police checkpoints in Dagestan on Sunday (June 23), coinciding with the Orthodox festival of Pentecost. The assault resulted in the deaths of at least 15 people, including police officers, a clergyman, and a security guard, according to reports from the BBC.

The deceased include seven police officers, a clergyman, a security guard, and six of the attackers. The remaining assailants are currently being pursued by police.

The attackers targeted two churches and two synagogues, spreading terror across different locations:

  • Orthodox Church in Makhachkala: A video circulating on social media shows men dressed in black ambushing a police car and killing an Orthodox church priest.
  • Jewish Synagogue in Derbent: Home to the ancient Jewish community, this synagogue was attacked and subsequently set on fire.

Russian authorities have launched an investigation, classifying the incident as a "terrorist act." The identities of the attackers have not yet been confirmed, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Dagestan has a history of attacks by militant groups, but this incident marks a significant escalation in violence targeting religious and law enforcement entities.

The Russian government and local officials are working to restore order and ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas. The attack has drawn widespread condemnation and has highlighted the ongoing security challenges in Dagestan.

Authorities continue to search for the remaining attackers and are urging the public to remain vigilant. The investigation is ongoing, with a focus on identifying the perpetrators and preventing further incidents.

This tragic event has shocked the region, underscoring the need for heightened security and interfaith solidarity in the face of extremist violence.