Moscow court arrests the coach of the Russian national team, a native of Tajikistan

The Shcherbinsky Court of Moscow has arrested the coach of the Russian national freestyle wrestling team, Alisher Ismatzoda, until August 28.

According to Russian media, the court reviewed the case of Tajikistan native Alisher Ismatzoda on July 3. The investigation accuses him under part 1 of Article 205.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (Incitement, recruitment, or other assistance to terrorist activities).

According to the investigation, one of Ismatzoda’s relatives is fighting in Syria and is wanted in Tajikistan on charges of terrorism. Ismatzoda allegedly transferred money to him on three occasions. He also stated that Ismatzoda transferred funds to individuals who have been convicted of terrorist activities or are suspected of similar crimes. This includes transfers of 10,000 rubles.

Ismatzoda himself stated that he transferred money to Mamedov when he was an ordinary citizen working as a taxi driver, and they were buying wrestling shoes and sneakers.

Alisher Ismatzoda claimed in court that he did not maintain contact with the relative who went to Syria, nor with any other individuals who profess radical Islam, as he himself is a “family man who practices traditional Islam.”

However, according to the investigation, “radical literature” was found in Ismatzoda’s home.

Defense attorneys noted that the man is essentially being charged with a crime for transferring small amounts of money for equipment, while the investigation has not even been able to provide information on these transactions in the legally required form.

At the same time, the lawyers insist on his innocence and stated that their client has never participated in and does not plan to participate in terrorist organizations, leads a secular lifestyle, is integrated into the community, and has three minor children.

The lawyer for the Tajikistan native requested that the court impose house arrest as a measure of restraint.

Alisher Ismatzoda is a native of the Jaihun district (formerly Kumsangir) of Tajikistan.

On July 4, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Tajikistan stated that Alisher Ismatzoda holds Russian citizenship.

In 2015, he graduated from the Russian State University of Physical Culture, Sports and Tourism. Ismatzoda is a Master of Sports of Russia in freestyle wrestling and a coach at Olympic Reserve School No. 1.

The Russian Wrestling Federation (FSBR) confirmed that he works as the senior coach of the women’s national team of Russia.

Recently, it was reported that Ismatzoda also served as the coach of the men’s youth national team of Russia in freestyle wrestling.