A coordinated operation by Russian security forces led to the detention of 49 individuals across 22 regions who were involved in fundraising activities for militants in Syria. This update was released by the Public Relations Center of the Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia and reported by TASS.
The FSB stated that the financial support channel used by the banned organization Katiba Tawhid wal-Jihad, which is coordinated by its representatives in Syria, has been shut down. The group is outlawed in Russia for its extremist activities.
Officials confirmed that the 49 detainees within the Russian Federation acted as accomplices to terrorist operations and participated in collecting money for militants in Syria.
On 20 February, the FSB provided clarification regarding a cell of an international terrorist organization in the Samara region that transfers funds to militants in Syria. It was noted that the detainees repeatedly wired funds to accounts controlled by militants in the Idlib region, an area associated with ongoing tensions and de facto control by various armed groups. All detainees face potential prison sentences, with a maximum penalty of up to 15 years upon conviction.
Earlier reports indicated that the Federal Security Service detained six members of a cell belonging to Hizb ut Tahrir, an organization banned in Russia, in Crimea.
In addition, authorities indicated that prior operations resulted in the detention of five individuals who acted as fundraisers for terrorists in Syria, underscoring a broader effort to disrupt financial networks linked to extremist activities.
Experts note that such actions reflect ongoing attempts by Russian security agencies to choke off financial flows to armed groups operating in the Syrian conflict. By targeting fundraising networks, authorities aim to reduce the resources available to militants and curb their operational capabilities. The cases illustrate the close monitoring of international extremist networks and the cross-border nature of their fundraising schemes, which rely on concealed transfers and multiple intermediaries to move money across regions. The outcomes of these arrests are expected to contribute to broader security measures and cooperation with regional partners to prevent further funding of extremist groups.
Observers also emphasize the importance of continued vigilance as terrorist organizations adapt their tactics and seek new methods for raising funds. Law enforcement agencies in Russia view the dismantling of these channels as a critical step in safeguarding civilian populations and stabilizing areas affected by the conflict in the Middle East. The authorities reaffirm their commitment to enforcing laws against terrorism and maintaining public safety across the federation.
The developments underscore the persistent threat posed by international terrorist organizations and the ongoing need for coordinated intelligence sharing and financial oversight to prevent the movement of funds to sympathizers and operatives abroad. The public is advised to rely on official briefings for verified information and to remain attentive to security advisories issued by authorities. TASS provides ongoing coverage of updates as they become available, drawing on statements from the FSB and related security services.