The State Security Service (SSS) has issued a warning about the growing influence of criminal subcultures, in particular the A.U.E. movement, among young people and migrant workers, particularly in Russia.
What is A.U.E.?
A.U.E. (Arestantskiy uklad edin, Prisoner's Criminal Unity) is a movement that emerged in Russia that idealizes the “thieves’ laws” and seeks to introduce prison culture into everyday life. In 2020, this movement was recognized as an extremist organization in the Russian Federation and banned, has been criminalized.
According to the SSS, the influence of A.U.E. also extends to Uzbeks working abroad. Reportedly, in recent years, several citizens of Uzbekistan have been prosecuted in Russia for supporting or joining this group. This has a negative impact not only on them, but also on the image of Uzbeks, the SSS noted.
As a rule, people are recruit occurs via the Internet - in social networks, chats and video platforms. Its representatives try to influence labor migrants with such concepts as "brotherhood", "common fund", "law by concepts".
What are the legal consequences?
According to Russian legislation, participation in the activities of A.U.E. is punishable by:
- a fine from 300 to 600 thousand rubles;
- up to one year of imprisonment;
- from one to four years of correctional labor;
- from two to six years of imprisonment.
While, for a labor migrant, this may lead to job loss and deportation.
In this regard, the State Security Service calls on parents of teenagers and labor migrants to be vigilant to their social circle, pay attention to signs of involvement in criminal communities, and not remain indifferent to their own safety.
"A.U.E. is a real threat not only to Russia, but also to our fellow countrymen working abroad. Respect should be earned not through crimes and "thieves' laws", but through honest work and family values. Protect not only your children, but also your future from criminal structures. Be vigilant!" the State Security Service concluded.
