Russian Terrorist Attack: Dirco confirms safety of South Africans in Moscow
Flags are flying at half mast, after a terrorist attack at Moscow’s Crocus City Hall, Dirco reassured the safety of South African embassy staff and students in Russia.
Following a terrorist attack at Moscow’s Crocus City Hall, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) swiftly reassured the public regarding the safety of South African embassy staff and students in Russia.
Reports have indicated that the terrorist attack resulted in over 130 fatalities and left more than 100 individuals injured.
In a statement released via social media, Clayson Monyela, spokesperson for Dirco, confirmed the safety of South African personnel in Moscow.
SOUTH AFRICAN PERSONNEL SAFE IN MOSCOW
“All South African Embassy staff in Moscow, including locally recruited personnel, have been confirmed safe. Additionally, all known South African students in Moscow are accounted for,” Monyela stated on the X platform.
He condemned the terrorist attack and reiterated the South African government’s strong stance against terrorism.
Meanwhile, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa extended heartfelt condolences to the people of Russia in the aftermath of the event. Expressing profound shock and sadness over the loss of life, President Ramaphosa underscored. The importance of reaching out to Russian President Vladimir Putin to address the incident and other pressing matters.
“In light of the devastating loss of life, with at least 115 reported fatalities, we stand in solidarity with the people of Russia. I will be engaging with President Putin in the coming days to offer our condolences and discuss various issues, including the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict,” remarked President Ramaphosa.
We are deeply saddened and we pay our condolences to the people of Russia following the tragic terror attack that killed so many people. I will be taking to President Putin to convey our condolences. pic.twitter.com/IY02LReEVQ— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) March 23, 2024
ADDRESSING TERRORIST ATTACK: CONDOLENCES AND RECOVERY
He emphasised the significance of addressing such acts of terror. He extended his condolences to the families of the victims, while also wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.
According to SABC, Putin spoke to the nation in response to the terrorist attack, affirming Russia’s unity in such incidents. He declared that Sunday will be observed as a day of mourning for the victims.