Yeisk Comedian Accused of Creating Criminal Organization

In 2025, stand-up comedian Artemy Ostanin* from Yeisk was detained on the border with Belarus; later, a criminal case was opened against him under Part 2, Article 282 of the Russian Criminal Code (incitement of hatred or enmity, or humiliation of human dignity).

Initially, it was known that the reason was a joke told by Ostanin during a performance in Moscow. In it, the comedian described how in the metro, a legless man on a skateboard ran into him, who, according to Ostanin, ‘stepped on a mine.’ Later, Ostanin was added to the list of terrorists and extremists.

At a hearing in Moscow’s Meshchansky Court on 19 January, state prosecutors presented a version that the comedian had created an organized criminal group (OCG) that helped him post videos online. According to RIA Novosti, group members prepared texts, filmed performances, and published them.

‘Pursuing the goal of prompting public discussion of his activities, Ostanin formed a criminal intent to commit public actions reflecting clear disrespect for society by insulting the religious feelings of believers, for which he created an organized criminal group,’ the prosecutor stated.

Ostanin is charged under Part 1, Article 148 of the Russian Criminal Code (public insult of believers’ religious feelings) and Part 2, Article 282 (incitement of hatred or enmity, humiliation of human dignity). The comedian has not admitted guilt.

*Artemy Ostanin was added to the list of terrorists and extremists. This became known on 4 June 2025.