In a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Singapore said it "strongly condemns the terrorist attack" at Crocus City Hall, Moscow, on Mar. 22, 2024.

"This attack is a stark reminder of the threat that terrorism continues to pose to all countries," MFA said, extending its condolences to the bereaved families and wishing the injured a swift recovery.

According to official figures, as of the afternoon of Mar. 24, 2024, 133 people were killed.

Background

Assailants had burst into Crocus City Hall as concertgoers were getting seated for a performance by Russian rock band "Picnic", international media reported.

Russian news outlets reported that explosives had been thrown during the attack, setting the building on fire.

ISIS-K, the Islamic State's Afghan branch, has claimed responsibility for the attack, a U.S. official told reported Reuters.

Moscow regional governor Andrei Vorobyov said 133 bodies had been recovered from the rubble within the first 24 hours.

He added that doctors are currently trying to save the lives of 107 injured people.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a televised address that 11 people have been detained, including the four gunmen, Reuters reported.

"All the perpetrators, organisers and those who ordered this crime will be justly and inevitably punished. Whoever they are, whoever is guiding them," Putin said.

"We will identify and punish everyone who stands behind the terrorists, who prepared this atrocity, this strike against Russia, against our people," he added.

No S'poreans affected, but advised to defer non-essential travel to Russia

MFA said that there are currently no reports of any Singaporeans affected by the attack.

However, Singaporeans are advised to defer all non-essential travel to Russia.

Singaporeans currently residing in Russia should remain vigilant, monitor local news, and follow the advice of local authorities.

They should also take precautions for their personal safety and e-register with MFA if they have not done so.

Singaporeans in Russia who require consular assistance should contact the Singapore Embassy in Moscow or MFA's Duty Office using the hotline numbers found here.

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Top photo via nexta_tv/X