Russia: Navalny-linked journalist arrested over 'extremism'

Konstantin Gabov has been accused of helping to create YouTube videos for Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died in prison earlier this year. If convicted, Gabov could face years in prison.

Russian journalist Konstantin Gabov has been accused of ‘extremism’

Russian journalist Konstantin Gabov has been arrested over accusations of “extremism,” the press service for Moscow courts said on Saturday.

The accusations are linked to YouTube videos published on the channel run by late opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Navalny died in an Arctic penal colony in February. His movement is designated by Russian authorities as an “extremist” group, meaning his staff and supporters can face prosecution.

What do we know about the charges against Gabov?

Gabov worked for the Russian broadcasters Moskva 24 and MIR, according to media reports. Additionally, he had worked with the Belarusian news agency Belsat and for Reuters. In 2019 and 2020, Gabov also worked as DW’s correspondent in Moscow.

Gabov worked as one of DW correspondents in Moscow in 2019 and 2020

On Saturday, court officials said Gabov was accused of participating “in preparing photo and video material” for the YouTube channel “Navalny LIVE.”

Gabov is to be held in pre-trial detention until June 27. If convicted, he could face two to six years in prison.

This is a developing news story and will be updated.

sdi/dj (AFP, Interfax)