The Main Investigative Directorate of the Russian Investigative Committee for Moscow has initiated a criminal case against law enforcement officers for abuse of authority.

According to investigators, police officers in the Krasnodar and Krasnoyarsk regions, as well as in the Belgorod region, illegally disclosed restricted-access information to a news channel on Telegram.

Searches were conducted in Moscow, the Krasnodar and Krasnoyarsk regions, and the Belgorod region. Law enforcement seized items and documents relevant to the investigation. Authorities are currently identifying those who illegally shared the information, as well as their accomplices, as reported by the press service of the Russian Investigative Committee.

The case reportedly involves the Telegram channel Baza.

On the morning of July 22, law enforcement conducted searches at the office of an online publication and at the home of its editor-in-chief.

“His current whereabouts are unknown. Neither his colleagues, family, nor lawyers have been able to locate him. Later, police officers arrived at the Baza editorial office. Employees present at the time stopped responding to communications,” the publication stated.

Baza journalists also noted that they were unaware of the reasons for the searches but suggested it might be related to a criminal case initiated in one of Russia’s regions.

Kuban

Kuban is a historical and cultural region in southern Russia, centered around the Kuban River and known for its fertile lands and Cossack heritage. It became a significant Cossack settlement in the late 18th century when the Russian Empire granted the land to the Black Sea Cossacks to defend its borders. Today, Kuban is renowned for its agricultural production, vibrant traditions, and unique blend of Russian and Ukrainian influences.

Moscow

Moscow, the capital of Russia, is a historic city founded in 1147, known for its iconic landmarks like the Kremlin, Red Square, and St. Basil’s Cathedral. It has served as the political, economic, and cultural heart of Russia for centuries, playing a central role in the country’s history, from the Tsardom to the Soviet era and modern times. Today, it is a vibrant metropolis blending rich heritage with contemporary architecture and global influence.

Krasnodar

Krasnodar is a major city in southern Russia, founded in 1793 as Yekaterinodar (named after Catherine the Great) and later renamed in 1920. Located on the Kuban River, it serves as the cultural and economic hub of the Kuban region, known for its Cossack heritage, vibrant arts scene, and historical landmarks like the Krasnodar Regional Art Museum. The city played a key role in Russia’s agricultural and military history, particularly during the Caucasus conflicts and World War II.

Krasnoyarsk

Krasnoyarsk is a major city in Siberia, Russia, founded in 1628 as a military fort on the Yenisei River. It grew into an important industrial and cultural hub, known for its nearby Stolby Nature Reserve and historic wooden architecture. Today, it is a key center for education, science, and transportation in Eastern Siberia.

Belgorod

Belgorod is a historic city in southwestern Russia, near the border with Ukraine, founded in 1596 as a fortress to defend the southern frontiers of the Russian Tsardom. Known for its role in World War II, particularly the Battle of Kursk, it was heavily damaged but later rebuilt. Today, Belgorod is a cultural and educational center, featuring landmarks like the Smolensky Cathedral and the Belgorod State Art Museum.

Telegram channel Baza

“Baza” is a Russian Telegram channel known for its rapid reporting on breaking news, often focusing on political events, emergencies, and insider information. Launched around 2016-2017, it has gained attention for its controversial leaks and alleged ties to Russian security services, though its exact origins remain unclear. The channel is frequently criticized for unverified claims but remains influential in Russia’s alternative media landscape.

Russian Investigative Committee

The Russian Investigative Committee (СК России) is a federal government agency responsible for criminal investigations, established in 2011 to replace the Investigative Committee of the Prosecutor’s Office. Modeled after the Soviet-era investigative bodies, it operates independently from other law enforcement agencies and reports directly to the President of Russia. The committee handles high-profile cases, including corruption, organized crime, and political offenses, and has been criticized for its perceived lack of transparency and political influence.