Masked security service agents conducted a search at the Moscow office of Novaya Gazeta on Thursday, according to the publication. The newspaper said it was unaware of the reason behind the operation and claimed its lawyers were denied access to the premises during the search.

Russia’s state news agency reported that they may be linked to an investigation into the alleged illegal use of personal data. The incident comes amid increasing pressure on independent media following Russia’s 2022 war in Ukraine, during which authorities have tightened censorship laws and oversight.

In a separate ruling the same day, Russia’s Supreme Court declared Memorial an extremist group, exposing its supporters to possible prosecution. Dmitry Muratov, editor-in-chief of Novaya Gazeta and a Nobel Peace Prize co-winner, has previously been labeled a “foreign agent,” reflecting the broader crackdown on dissenting voices.

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