40 dead after gunmen open fire, throw bombs at Moscow concert hall

NEW DELHI: Russia’s Federal Security Service on Friday said 40 people died and more than 100 were wounded in an attack at a Moscow concert hall.
The attack, which Russian authorities are investigating as terrorism, is the deadliest in Russia in recent years. Several gunmen burst into the concert hall on the edge of Moscow and sprayed visitors with automatic gunfire, killing and wounding dozens and starting a massive blaze.
Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Telegram wrote, “The entire world community must condemn this despicable crime!”
Emergency services reported that approximately 100 individuals were evacuated from the basement of a Moscow concert hall following a shooting and fire outbreak on Friday.Efforts are underway to assist others seeking refuge on the roof.
The Moscow region’s emergency situations ministry on Telegram wrote, “Around 100 people have been evacuated from the basement by the firefighters. Work is ongoing to save people from the roof of the building with lifting equipment.”
Local media reported that there was also a blast after the shooting started.
“The evacuation of people is ongoing,” emergency services told the TASS news agency.
Videos are also circualting online showing the concert hall on fire.
(With inputs from agencies)