Law enforcement authorities have apprehended a former theater administrator in Moscow on suspicion of orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that diverted over 20 million rubles from city funds.
The individual, identified in media reports as being of Azerbaijani origin, previously held leadership positions at a prominent capital theater. According to official statements, the suspect established a fictitious business arrangement where they registered as a sole proprietor and entered into fraudulent contracts with their own theater institution.
Through this arrangement, the former administrator allegedly claimed to have authored multiple theatrical productions and transferred performance rights to the theater. For each presentation of these works, the individual reportedly received compensation equivalent to four percent of ticket sales revenue.
Investigative agencies indicate that dozens of theatrical performances were presented under this scheme over an extended period. The total financial damage to the Moscow budget is estimated to exceed 20 million rubles.
During the investigation, authorities executed search warrants at the suspect’s residence, seizing financial assets and documentary evidence. Additional documents were obtained from the theater institution itself. Banking restrictions have been imposed on accounts belonging to the accused and immediate family members.
The suspect has been transported to investigative authorities for further questioning. Criminal proceedings have been initiated under fraud statutes of the Russian criminal code.
Records indicate the individual had been associated with the theater since 1985, serving in various administrative capacities including management positions from 1992 through late 2021.
