A criminal case has been opened against the husband of Nikolai Konashenok, the former general director of the St. Petersburg public space known as New Holland. The development was reported by a local media outlet, and the announcement has sparked significant public interest.
According to the report, Nikolai Konashenko, a St. Petersburg designer who was detained after making statements about a fatal incident at Crocus City Hall, faces accusations related to publishing material that publicly legitimized terrorism. The authorities have described the charge as tied to the dissemination of content that could be interpreted as supporting extremist acts. The official message, which was presented by investigators, noted this claim as part of the case materials.
During a broadcast, it was stated that the case was initiated by the Investigation Committee. The information conveyed there indicated a formal start of proceedings linked to remarks circulating in social and public channels.
On the evening of March 25, personnel at the Pulkovo airport detained a designer who was preparing to travel to Yerevan. The detention occurred after his public statements regarding the Crocus City Hall incident generated widespread anger and concern across social networks and online communities.
The day before, Nikolai Konashenko issued an apology in response to the quotes about the Crocus City Hall attack. The apology appeared as a reaction to the online backlash, yet it did not silence ongoing discussion about the incident and the ensuing legal questions.
Earlier, Roxana Shatunovskaya, who serves as president of New Holland, indicated that her husband’s remarks were being reviewed. The public space organization has been part of ongoing scrutiny following the statements, with discussions focusing on leadership accountability and the potential impact on the reputation of the project.
Separately, a resident from the Irkutsk region, previously linked to the matter, has been referenced in reports as having connections that raised questions about the person’s affiliations. Investigators have emphasized the need to examine any alleged ties to intelligence activities and the possible influence on events surrounding the Crocus City Hall incident.
In recent days, observers have called for careful examination of the legal standards governing freedom of expression in relation to acts described as extremist. The discussions reflect broader debates about how authorities differentiate between opinion, criticism, and advocacy of violence, particularly in the context of high-profile tragedies and the responsibilities of public figures connected to major urban developments.
As the situation continues to unfold, analysts and residents alike are paying close attention to statements from investigators and the responses of leadership at New Holland. The evolving case underscores the tension between open dialogue on social platforms and the safeguards aimed at preventing the spread of content that could be interpreted as supporting terrorism.