Gunmen Attack Churches and Synagogues in Russia’s Dagestan, Killing Priest and Officers

Gunmen launched simultaneous attacks on churches and synagogues in Russia’s North Caucasus region of Dagestan, resulting in the deaths of eight police and national guard officers, and a 66-year-old Orthodox priest. The attacks occurred in Makhachkala, Dagestan’s largest city, and in the coastal city of Derbent. Authorities responded by killing four attackers in Makhachkala and two in Derbent.

Russia’s Investigative Committee has initiated criminal investigations into the incidents, labeling them “acts of terror.” The National Anti-Terrorism Committee confirmed the attacks targeted two Orthodox churches, a synagogue, and a police checkpoint. The active phase of the operation against the attackers in Derbent has concluded.

In total, six officers were killed and twelve wounded in the attacks. The National Guard reported the death of one of its officers in Derbent, with several others injured. Additionally, gunmen shot at a police car in Sergokal, a village 65 kilometers from Makhachkala, wounding one officer.

The Russian Orthodox Church mourns the loss of Archpriest Nikolai Kotelnikov, who was brutally killed in Derbent. Authorities are investigating the involvement of local individuals, including the sons of the Sergokal district chief, in the attacks.