New Searches in Crimea. Criminal Cases Initiated Against Two Women

On February 5, 2026, searches were carried out at the homes of two residents of Simferopol, 59-year-old Galina Privalova and 27-year-old Anna Moroz; both were interrogated and then placed under a recognizance agreement.

The searches began early in the morning. At Galina's home, the investigative actions lasted 1.5 hours, and at Anna's — about 6 hours. The law enforcement officers seized — including from Moroz's parents, who live with her — mobile phones, photographs, personal notes, cards, bank cards, storage devices, and an e-book reader. About 10 people took part in the operation, including Major Latyshev, a senior officer of the FSB Directorate, known for being involved in cases against other Jehovah's Witnesses in Crimea.

After the searches, Galina, Anna, her husband, and her parents were taken to the Investigative Committee. After some time, all were released, but Moroz and Privalova were placed under a recognizance agreement.

On January 26, 2026, Captain of Justice Rudoy, an investigator of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation for the city of Sevastopol, initiated criminal cases against Galina and Anna, charging them with extremism.

In Crimea, 35 Jehovah's Witnesses have already faced criminal prosecution, 14 of whom have been sent to penal colonies. The only "guilt" of these men and women of various ages and social status is their peaceful worship.