Two Muslim clerics arrested in Russia amid confusing, unconfirmed reports of wider crackdown

Over the past several days, Russian Telegram channels and pro-Kremlin commentators have reported that several people connected to the Spiritual Administration of Muslims (SAM) of Russia have been detained.

It has been officially confirmed that two people were detained: the Mufti of Mordovia, Rail Asainov, and the former Mufti of Karelia, Imam Wisam Ali Bardwil.

The first case involves criminal charges; the second is administrative.

Reports of detentions of other Muslim religious figures have not been confirmed.

Here’s what we know, so far. ...