Authorities in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) detained staff members of a nightclub following accusations by local officials that the venue hosted performances featuring transgender entertainers from Thailand, local media reported Thursday.
The raid at Club Number One in Yakutsk was reportedly triggered by a complaint from the Yakutsk Administrative Commission. The commission alleged that the club was “publicly promoting non-traditional relationships and gender transition” through shows by transgender performers from Thailand.
Photos and videos shared earlier on Telegram appeared to show erotic performances taking place at the club.
Felix Antonov, head of the Yakutsk Administrative Commission, told the outlet SakhaDay.ru that no transgender performers were found during the raid. Nevertheless, police detained the club’s manager, bartenders, and waitstaff. It remains unclear if charges will be filed against them.
Law enforcement officials stated that an investigation into the alleged performances is underway and that they are searching for the performers from Thailand.
In 2023, Russia’s Supreme Court classified the “international LGBT movement” as “extremist,” effectively criminalizing any public LGBTQ+ expressions or rights advocacy across the country.
