Russia detains Muslim religious officials in multiple cities

Russian security forces have carried out operations targeting representatives of Muslim religious administrations across multiple cities, detaining several officials including a regional mufti, according to Russian media reports.

Muftis among those detained

The operations took place in Moscow, Saransk, St. Petersburg, and Saratov. Among those detained is Mordovia’s Mufti Abdulmalik (Rail) Asainov, as well as Visam Ali Bardvil, the former mufti of Karelia. All of the detained individuals reportedly serve under the Religious Administration of Muslims of Russia. No official statement has yet been issued by Russian security agencies or the religious administration’s leadership regarding the legal grounds for the detentions.

Türkiye’s position

Türkiye has consistently advocated for the protection of religious freedoms and the rights of Muslim communities worldwide. Ankara is closely monitoring the situation and expects Russian authorities to respect the rule of law and the rights of detained individuals. No further details about the number of detainees or the specific allegations against them have been made public at this stage.