Finogenov and others v Russia (App no 18299/03 and 27311/03) 20 December 2011

The applicants, survivors and relatives of victims of hostage-taking that took place in October 2002 in Moscow in the “Dubrovka” theatre. During the operation on rescuing hostages the security forces used an unknown gas which, according to the applicants, killed or severely injured not only the terrorists but a large number of hostages. The applicants complain on disproportionate use of force, lack of medical assistance to hostages and the failure to conduct an effective investigation. Applicants rely on the right to life and prohibition of torture and inhuman or degrading treatment.