The night raids on Moscow clubs were carried out “as part of measures to combat LGBT propaganda,” Moscow police told TASS
The raids took place on the anniversary of the recognition of LGBT as an “extremist movement” in Russia.
"As TASS was told by the press service of the Moscow Main Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the club on Skladochnaya Street was promoting LGBT ideology. "During the inspection of the establishment, the police seized smartphones, laptops, video cameras and other items that are important for making a procedural decision," the agency's source said. In addition, during the raid on the club on Skladochnaya Street, the police found that the establishment was illegally selling alcohol, presumably without excise duty. Law enforcement officers also found and seized weapons in the establishment. They were sent for examination. "As part of the inspection, a procedural assessment will be given to the management and visitors of the club," the press service said. Law enforcement agencies told TASS that the inspection was also carried out in several other clubs, including Arma (formerly Mutabor) and Mono. Thus, during the visit of the security forces, the Gamma Festival party was taking place in the Arma club. Visitors had their documents checked and were searched with the help of service dogs. The security forces' visit to some clubs was prompted by complaints from local residents," the state media outlet said in a publication.
Exactly one year ago, on November 30, 2023, LGBT was recognized as an “extremist movement” in Russia.