The synagogue in the city was also targeted, with reports indicating that it was set ablaze, as evidenced by photos and videos circulating on social media.
Unknown attackers have unleashed a wave of violence in Dagestan, southern Russia, targeting a synagogue, two Orthodox churches, and a traffic police station, according to RT.
The assaults have resulted in the deaths of at least seven police officers and injured 12 others, including six in a raid on the regional capital's traffic police station.
In a chilling incident, the attackers broke into an Orthodox church in Derbent, killing a local priest.
The synagogue in the city was also targeted, with reports indicating that it was set ablaze, as evidenced by photos and videos circulating on social media.
The devastating attacks have sparked widespread alarm and concern, prompting authorities to race against time to apprehend the culprits and restore order.
While the motivations behind the attacks are still shrouded in mystery, the violence has stoked fears of escalating religious tensions and extremism in the region, underscoring the urgent need for unity and peace.
Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church has condemned the recent violence in Dagestan, warning that the perpetrators' intent is to spark sectarian hatred.
He emphasised that it is crucial to prevent this "diabolical" goal from being achieved, while offering condolences to those affected by the tragedy.
Firefighters have successfully contained and extinguished the fire at the synagogue in Derbent, which was one of the targets of the attacks.
The aftermath of the blaze is evident in images from the scene, showcasing the severity of the damage and emphasizing the pressing need for harmony and peace in the region.
The Russian Jewish Congress has given a chilling account of the synagogue attack in Derbent, detailing how a police unit and private security guards courageously fought off the attackers, giving their lives to shield the community.
Although the defenders showed remarkable bravery, the assailants tragically succeeded in setting the building ablaze with firebombs, leaving a trail of destruction and devastation.
The Congress also reported a similar attack on a synagogue in Makhachkala, although details remain scarce. The same perpetrators allegedly targeted an Orthodox church, brutally killing its priest.
The Jewish organization has extended its condolences to all those affected by the tragedy.
Dagestani law enforcement reports that 16 individuals, including 13 police officers, were urgently transported to the primary regional hospital in Makhachkala, underscoring the grave nature and severity of the attacks.