Chechen authorities assert that businessman and blogger Areg Shchepikhin was detained by law enforcement, not kidnapped as previously reported. Akhmed Dudaev, Minister of the Chechen Republic for National Policy and External Relations, made the statement, clarifying the circumstances surrounding Shchepikhin’s apprehension in Moscow.

Dudaev stated that the Ministry of Internal Affairs for the Chechen Republic has been investigating Shchepikhin since June 3, accusing him of inciting hatred, rehabilitating Nazism, making public calls for extremist activities, insulting religious sentiments, and expressing intentions of committing rape and espionage. He further noted that State Duma deputies from Chechnya provided information regarding Shchepikhin’s alleged crimes to Moscow security officials, particularly concerning his social media posts.

According to Dudaev, law enforcement officers are currently conducting a comprehensive investigation into Shchepikhin. He also warned against justifying Shchepikhin’s actions, claiming it constitutes a crime, especially in light of Russia’s ongoing military operation against Nazism.

Reports indicate that Shchepikhin was apprehended on the evening of June 3 at the Yaroslavsky railway station by individuals who forced him into the trunk of a black Mercedes GLS 500 with flashing lights. Prior to his “detention,” Shchepikhin had reportedly posted videos containing offensive content on social media.

On the morning of June 4, Moscow security forces conducted investigative work near the Yaroslavsky railway station.