The scene of the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall concert venue on the outskirts of Moscow, Russia, March 22, 2024. (Photo: Xinhua/VNA)

More than 100 journalists from press agencies and media outlets attended the trial amid tight security measures. The trial, conducted by a three-judge panel, began as an open hearing before moving behind closed doors to protect classified information.

A total of 2,400 victims have been identified in connection with the case. There are 19 defendants on trial, including those directly involved in the terrorist attack and their accomplices.

A separate investigation is still underway into two suspected masterminds of the attack and four members of the affiliated terrorist organization.