The press service strongly condemns the dissemination of false and defamatory allegations against Rafis Kashapov, which were made in videos in which he was baselessly labelled a “terrorist.” Akhmed Zakayev’s name was also mentioned in the same context.
According to available information, the videos in question were distributed with the participation of Erik Gafarov and Vladimir Sukhoplyuev. These recordings contain statements that are not supported by any evidence and are intended to be defamatory.
It’s worth noting that these videos display an extremely bizarre attempt to connect completely unrelated public figures. For example, Vladimir Sukhoplyuyev, in his arguments, mentions Mintimer Shaimiev, Vladimir Putin, and Ksenia Sobchak in the same context. This combination resembles a chaotic collection of names rather than an attempt to present facts, which in itself calls into question the veracity of the claims being made.
We remind you that Rafis Kashapov, like Akhmed Zakayev, received political asylum and citizenship in the United Kingdom, a country with one of the strictest legal systems. This fact contradicts the circulated insinuations.
The content of the videos, which contain threats against third parties, is of particular concern. We consider such statements to be potentially dangerous and require immediate legal review.
We also note that, according to available information, individuals involved in distributing these materials may have previously been involved in activities with signs of fraud. Currently, there are grounds to believe that similar schemes may be attempted within the European Union, including with potential harm to vulnerable groups.
The press service considers the dissemination of such materials unacceptable and reserves the right to defend its honour and dignity, including appealing to competent authorities and the courts.
We call on the law enforcement authorities of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to provide a proper legal assessment of the actions of these individuals and to take action if violations of the law are discovered.
In light of the above, we appeal to the competent authorities of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to conduct a thorough investigation into whether these individuals may be associated with organised criminal activity in the Russian Federation and may be using political asylum mechanisms for purposes that are contrary to the laws and security of European states.
