Islamic State (IS) inmates have taken two prison officers, hostage, at a detention centre in Rostov, southern Russia. The incident occurred in detention centre Number One of the Rostov region, as announced by the prison services on Sunday.
“The inmates took two prison officers hostage,” the statement read. “Negotiations on the release of the hostages are underway.”
According to a police source interviewed by the state news agency TASS, the hostage-takers include IS members awaiting trial on terrorism charges.
Background and Context
Russia has experienced several attacks claimed by the jihadist organization Islamic State. One of the most devastating occurred on March 22, when gunmen killed at least 144 people at a concert hall near Moscow, marking the deadliest attack on Russian soil in two decades. Hundreds more were injured in the assault.
Following the attack, more than 20 people have been arrested, including the four suspected attackers, all of whom are from the former Soviet republic of Tajikistan. IS claimed responsibility for this attack.
Ongoing Situation
As negotiations continue in Rostov, authorities are working diligently to secure the release of the hostages and ensure the safety of all involved. The incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by IS and the challenges faced by Russian security forces in managing such high-risk detainees.
