Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
9 May 2002
The South African Government has expressed its shock at the attack in Southern Russia on a bus carrying a military band. The Government wishes to convey its sincere condolences to the Government and the people of the Russian Federation at the loss of life and in particular the death of a number of innocent children.
It would appear from initial media reports that this attack was carefully planned to cause maximum loss of life. The South African Government in this regard wishes to condemn any form of violent action or terrorism in the strongest terms.
Ironically, this tragic incident happened on Victory Day, the day on which Russia commemorates the 57th anniversary of the victory against Nazism. Furthermore, the South African Government remains concerned about the continuing incidences of violent attacks in some regions of the Russian Federation
For further information contact Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853