Migrants warned not to send money to unknown individuals

The representation of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Tajikistan in Russia has urged citizens of the country to refrain from transferring funds to bank cards of unknown individuals and foreign organizations.

The statement from the representation notes that Russian legislation provides for criminal liability for conducting financial transactions aimed at financing extremist and terrorist organizations.

Tajik migrants in Russia have also been advised to exercise caution when receiving various SMS messages from unknown individuals in messengers and social networks that encourage collecting funds for “helping victims” or other similar purposes.

The representation of the Ministry of Labor and Migration also reported that the Supreme Courts of Tajikistan and Russia have recognized a number of organizations as terrorist, extremist, or foreign agents, and financial support for such organizations may lead to criminal penalties. However, the representation did not name the banned organizations.

This statement from the Ministry of Labor’s representation in Russia comes against the backdrop of recent reports that hundreds of Tajik migrants have been sentenced to long prison terms for allegedly sending money to the leader of the opposition portal “Isloh,” Muhammadikbol Sadriddin.

Earlier, the representation of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Tajikistan in Russia also warned citizens about new rules for crossing the Russian border. According to these rules, Russian border authorities have the right to check the personal electronic devices of citizens, including mobile phones, computers, and other equipment.

As noted in the statement, refusal to provide equipment for inspection or unwillingness to unlock it may result in administrative liability. Thus, the representation reported that in case of refusal, migrants could be fined between 5,000 to 7,000 rubles or detained for up to 15 days.

According to the Ministry of Labor’s representation, these measures are being taken to prevent the financing of extremism and smuggling. Citizens of Tajikistan who are going to work in Russia have been advised to pay attention to the existing rules in advance to avoid difficulties when crossing the border.