Russia detains independent outlet Novaya Gazeta editor Sergei Sokolov

Russian police are currently conducting a search of the residence belonging to Sergei Sokolov, the editor-in-chief of the independent newspaper Novaya Gazeta, according to Baza and RBC reports. The search originates from a criminal case initiated in the spring, although the specific case has not been identified. Baza claims the case involves the illegal utilization of personal data, with Novaya Gazeta columnist Oleg Roldugin named in connection with the investigation.

Novaya Gazeta's editorial team confirmed that Sokolov is being transported to the Investigative Committee for questioning following the search, and a defense attorney has been assigned to represent him. Russian authorities apprehended Oleg Roldugin on April 10 after a search of Novaya Gazeta's editorial office, where he was subsequently charged under a statute pertaining to the illicit use and storage of personal data by a group involved in a prior conspiracy.

The BBC has drawn a connection between Sokolov's predicament and his operation of an anonymous Telegram channel titled Bolshe, chem fakt, which disseminated information concerning business jet flights taken by individuals such as Dmitry Medvedev, Alexei Mordashov, and Vladimir Yevtushenkov. Roldugin had also incorporated these flight details into his own investigations.

In early June, the journalist was subsequently placed under house arrest. In early June, journalist Oleg Roldugin was transferred to house arrest following his transfer from the investigative office.