In a disturbing incident dated July 6, an unidentified assailant painted a Moscow Region lawyer with bright green paint at a public bus stop. The victim believes the attack is connected to professional activities and has indicated that threats had previously been directed at them. The lawyer plans to approach the chamber’s investigating authorities after receiving prior warnings, underscoring a pattern that raises concerns about the safety of legal professionals in the area.
The assault left the lawyer with retinal damage and other bodily injuries. Earlier threats appeared via instant messaging, accompanied by images that suggested surveillance. The car was also vandalized with permanent paint. Despite these alarming signals, attempts to obtain a serious response from law enforcement authorities have reportedly failed, prompting calls from the regional chamber for a comprehensive review of the case and stronger protection for members who face dangers tied to their work.
The Council of the Moscow Region Lawyers’ Chamber is preparing to raise the issue with the leadership of the investigating bodies. The goal is a rigorous, transparent inquiry into crimes targeting legal professionals, ensuring accountability and restoring public confidence in the protection afforded to those who perform essential judicial functions.
These developments follow a broader context of violence against media and legal professionals in the region. Recent events have drawn attention to the risks faced by journalists and lawyers who report on sensitive topics or represent clients in contentious cases. The persistent threats and aggressive acts emphasize the need for coordinated responses from law enforcement, professional associations, and civil society to safeguard those who operate at the intersection of law, truth, and accountability.
In a related report, there was news of an attack on prominent journalist Yelena Milashina and lawyer Alexander Nemov in Chechnya. The incident involved masked assailants disabling their vehicle and destroying equipment and documents on the way from an airport, creating a frightening scene that underscores the volatility of safety conditions for professionals traveling in the region. The response from regional authorities has included promises to conduct a thorough inquiry and to pursue those responsible, signaling a commitment to addressing violence against both journalists and lawyers.
Residents and professional communities are calling for concrete measures to prevent further violence. This includes intensified protective measures for officials and reporters, improved channels for reporting threats, and timely investigative action to deter future attacks. The aim is not only to respond to incidents after they occur but to create an environment where legal professionals can conduct their duties without fear, and where the public can rely on the justice system to uphold safety, integrity, and the rule of law.