Law enforcement has launched a criminal investigation into a kidnapping case following an incident near the Yaroslavsky railway station in Moscow. The Investigative Committee has identified all individuals believed to be involved in the event.

The incident occurred on the night of June 4, when businessman and blogger Areg Schepikhin was allegedly seized by four individuals at the Yaroslavsky railway station. Witnesses reported that Schepikhin was forced into the trunk of a black Mercedes and taken away.

Police detained six individuals in connection with the events at the railway station, and a case has been opened against them for kidnapping and abuse of power.

The events unfolded after Schepikhin posted a video online criticizing a Chechen individual, their family, nationality, and religion.

Akhmed Dudaev, the Minister of Chechnya for National Policy, External Relations, Press and Information, refuted the kidnapping claim. He stated that Schepikhin was detained as part of an investigation into insulting religious feelings. Dudaev added that the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Chechen Republic has been conducting an investigation since June 3.

The Investigative Committee has reported that investigative actions are underway with all identified individuals involved.