The Russian State Duma has adopted in the second and third readings a law providing for the introduction of temporary restrictive measures against individuals who are abroad and evading court-imposed punishment. This was reported by Meduza.
The law applies to individuals who are abroad and have been convicted under any article of the Russian Criminal Code. Also included within the scope of restrictions are persons who have not paid fines for administrative offenses.
In particular, measures will be taken against individuals who have not paid fines established for offenses related to operating as a foreign agent, participating in the activities of an "undesirable organization," calling for the violation of Russia's territorial integrity or the imposition of sanctions, as well as "discrediting" the Russian army.
Under the new procedure, the bank accounts of such individuals will be frozen. The sale of real estate and vehicles owned by them will be prohibited. Previously issued licenses, permits, and accreditations will be suspended.
Additionally, access to state services on Russian territory will be restricted. Abroad, consular services will not be provided, including the issuance of passports for foreign travel, certification of transactions, wills, and powers of attorney.
Additional restrictions were introduced during the second reading of the law. In particular, banks will block such individuals' access to personal accounts in mobile apps and websites. This will limit their ability to transfer money.
Furthermore, the income of these individuals will be transferred to a special account. Court costs may be recovered from this account.
The law will come into force after its official publication.
Before the vote, State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin called on individuals who have left the country to come to court and admit their guilt.
"We are talking about those who are harming our country. They are extremists, traitors to the Motherland. They have been trying to destroy our state for years. They justify fascism, insult our soldiers and officers. At the same time, they are hiding from punishment in other countries," Volodin said.
Earlier, it was reported that convicted migrants in Russia would be banned from living in the country and would not be granted citizenship.
