Press Release, 26.01.2026

Photo by Nikita Yudin, Kommersant

At least seven domestic dogs have died in the western district of Moscow since mid-January – local residents blame dog hunters and are posting photographs of “pink” snow (this is how animal abusers distribute poison). Moscow Yabloko is calling the incidents systematic crimes and demanding an immediate investigation.

The statement by Kirill Goncharov, Chairman of Moscow Yabloko, is addressed to three heads of supervisory and executive bodies at once – the heads of the Moscow Investigative Committee, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Public Prosecutor’s Office:

“A series of domestic dogs poisonings has been recorded in the Western district of Moscow, including in the Meshchersky Les residential complex.

According to residents’ reports, at least six – seven animals have died, with several more in critical condition. Pink snow, presumably soaked with poisonous substances, has been found in courtyards.

This case is not about ‘isolated incidents’, but represents of part of systematic crimes that pose a threat not only to animals but also to people – primarily children.

Despite residents’ appeals, there has been no public information to date about the opening of a criminal case, the progress of the investigation or measures taken. Such inaction effectively encourages the perpetrators.

Moscow Yabloko considers what is happening unacceptable and demands an immediate and firm response from the law enforcement agencies.

I am appealing to Oleg Baranov, Head of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for Moscow, Maxim Zhuk, Moscow Public Prosecutor, Dmitry Belyaev, Head of the Main Investigative Directorate of the Investigative Committee of Russia for Moscow, and demand the following:

• the immediate opening of a criminal case regarding the facts of mass animal poisoning;
• a legal assessment of what has occurred from the standpoint of threats to citizens’ lives and health;
• operational and investigative actions to be conducted in the territory of the Meshchersky Les residential complex and other affected areas;
• residents to be informed about the progress of the investigation and measures taken;
• the situation to be placed under prosecutorial oversight.

Inaction in such cases is complicity through negligence. Moscow must not become a territory of unpunished violence.

Moscow Yabloko expresses its condolences to the owners of the deceased animal friends.”

It should be noted that dog hunters’ actions fall under Article 245 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (cruelty to animals). This article provides for criminal liability for cruel treatment of an animal with the aim of causing it pain and/or suffering, or for hooligan motives, resulting in its death or injury. Punishment ranges from a fine of up to 80,000 roubles to imprisonment for up to five years.