Justice Unfolds: Moscow Trial Begins for Crocus City Hall Massacre Linked to ISIS

Nineteen individuals faced trial in Moscow on Monday over last year’s tragic shooting at a well-known concert hall near the Russian capital.

The Islamic State has taken responsibility for the attack that occurred on March 22, 2024, at Crocus City Hall, during which four assailants killed 149 attendees and injured over 600. According to court documents referenced by the state-run TASS news agency, nearly half of the victims died from smoke and carbon monoxide inhalation caused by a fire inside the venue, rather than directly from gunfire.

Four of the accused—Tajik nationals Dalerjon Mirzoyev, Saidakrami Murodali Rachabalizoda, Shamsidin Fariduni, and Muhammadsobir Faizov—are charged with executing the assault. All except Faizov have admitted guilt to terrorism charges. Additionally, fifteen others face charges of providing assistance to the attackers.

An AFP reporter present in the courtroom noted that some defendants were restrained in glass enclosures with their hands bound behind them. Approximately 30 survivors were also present for the proceedings.

The trial is taking place at the Moscow City Court and is being overseen by a three-judge panel from the Second Western District Military Court. The panel has approved a request from the prosecution to close the trial to the public, citing safety concerns for those involved in the case, as reported by the RBC news outlet.

An attorney representing the victims urged the court to keep the evidence portion of the trial closed but to allow the remaining parts to remain public due to significant public interest in the case.

Russian media indicated that the open segment of Monday’s hearing lasted less than 45 minutes and involved identifying the defendants and discussing civil lawsuits. Additional hearings are set for Tuesday and Thursday, according to the court’s official website.

Police investigators allege that the assault was conducted on Ukraine’s behalf to undermine Russia, a claim that officials in Kyiv have denied. Last year, President Vladimir Putin stated that those suspected of the attack attempted to escape to Ukraine afterward but were apprehended near the border.

According to BBC Russia, investigators are attempting to validate two parallel theories: that the attack was orchestrated by the Islamic State with assistance from foreign intelligence agencies acting in favor of Ukraine.

An ongoing investigation is also looking into six other suspects, including two alleged masterminds who remain at large; they are accused of recruiting the attackers and facilitating their training abroad.

This report includes contributions from AFP.