“Following the neutralisation of the threats to the lives and health of citizens, it was decided to end the anti-terrorist operation in Dagestan from 5.15am,” the national anti-terrorism committee said, according to Russian news agencies.

The gunmen who stormed churches and a synagogue in the predominantly Muslim North Caucasus region yesterday killed 15 police officers and a priest, authorities said, denouncing a “terrorist” act.

The attacks took place in the Dagestan capital Makhachkala and nearby Derbent.

“Over 15 police fell victim to the terrorist act,” Dagestan’s regional leader Sergei Melikov said in a video posted on Telegram, adding that they “protected civilians … at the cost of their lives”.

The initial death toll given was eight police officers and a priest.