Russian independent newspaper Novaya Gazeta said Tuesday that its managing editor Oleg Roldugin has been charged with the illegal collection and use of personal data, in a case that has raised fresh concerns over press freedom in Russia.
Authorities arrested Roldugin on Thursday during a police raid on the newspaper’s Moscow newsroom. Subsequently, a court ordered that he remain in pre-trial detention until May 10 while investigations continue.
Investigators allege that Roldugin, along with unidentified individuals, unlawfully obtained and published personal information. The charge carries a potential prison sentence of up to four years. However, Roldugin has pleaded not guilty, while his legal team stated that officials have not disclosed whose data he is accused of accessing.
Meanwhile, Roldugin is widely recognised for his investigative reporting on alleged corruption involving senior Russian figures, including former president Dmitry Medvedev and Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. His work has often placed him at the centre of politically sensitive investigations.
Before joining Novaya Gazeta, Roldugin worked for the weekly Sobesednik, which ceased operations after being designated a “foreign agent” in 2024 under Russian law.
In response to the arrest, the Committee to Protect Journalists called on Russian authorities to immediately release Roldugin and end what it described as targeted pressure on independent media outlets.
Novaya Gazeta itself halted its print edition shortly after the escalation of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, citing strict censorship measures imposed by the government. Nevertheless, the outlet has continued publishing content online, maintaining its role as one of the country’s most prominent independent voices.
The case is likely to intensify scrutiny of Russia’s treatment of journalists, as rights groups warn of increasing restrictions on media freedom and dissent.
