The trial of 19 defendants accused in the deadly 2024 terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall in Moscow began Monday under heavy security. The mass shooting and arson left 149 dead and more than 600 injured, marking one of the worst terror attacks in the Russian capital in recent years.
The March 22 massacre occurred when four armed men opened fire on concertgoers waiting to see a rock band before setting the building ablaze. The Islamic State group quickly claimed responsibility. Russian investigators say the attackers tried to flee to Ukraine, fueling controversial and unsubstantiated claims by President Vladimir Putin’s government that Kyiv had a hand in the attack—a claim Ukraine denies.
Russia’s Investigative Committee alleged the attack was carried out “in the interests of the current leadership of Ukraine,” though it has yet to present evidence supporting this assertion. The four gunmen, all Tajik nationals, were captured hours after the assault. They later appeared in court showing signs of severe physical abuse.
Monday’s proceedings involved 19 defendants, some accused of direct involvement in the massacre, others charged with aiding the attackers or supporting their logistics. Six suspects have been charged in absentia and placed on Russia’s wanted list for allegedly organizing and recruiting for the attack.
Inside the courtroom, the accused sat with heads bowed in a secured holding area. Security around the court was high as the case unfolds under global scrutiny and continued geopolitical tensions.
