According to Russian officials, the two attacks resulted in injuries to at least 25 people.
According to the Russian National Anti-Terrorism Committee, multiple gunmen opened fire on a synagogue and an Orthodox church in Derbent, a city on the Caspian Sea, around 6 p.m. local time. The attackers also set fire to both houses of worship, making it a horrific and violent incident.
According to Russian officials, another assault took place in Makhchkala, which is also situated on the Caspian Sea, approximately 75 miles away.
Officials have reported that a gun battle between the suspects and the police is currently taking place in Makhachkala on Sunday night.
According to Russian officials, the suspects in the Derbent attack were spotted fleeing the scene in a Volkswagen Polo, as reported by eyewitnesses.
Gunmen in Makhachkala reportedly fired at traffic police on a street and set a police car on fire on another street, according to the TASS state-owned news agency.
In a statement, Sergei Melikov, the Russian leader of the Dagestan region, announced the establishment of an operational headquarters in response to the attacks.
In his statement, Melikov reported that there were attempts to destabilize the social situation in Derbent and Makhachkala this evening. However, the Dagestan police officers intervened and prevented any further escalation. Sadly, there are reports of casualties among them, according to early information.
Melikov appealed to the residents of Dagestan, urging them to stay calm amidst the ongoing situation.
