Dominican authorities arrest Russian leader of regional disinformation network

La Altagracia.- Dominican authorities arrested Dmitrii Novikov, a 25-year-old Russian citizen identified as the leader of a cyber-influence and digital disinformation network tied to the Russian “Lakhta” project, also known as “The Company.” The operation, conducted by the Public Ministry and the Task Force Against Organized Crime, took place in a villa in Bávaro, where Novikov lived with his family. Investigators allege he managed a social media manipulation platform aimed at spreading political disinformation in the Dominican Republic and across the region.

Authorities reported that Novikov posed as a mixed martial arts athlete to conceal his Russian nationality, relying on local collaborators to disguise the origin of digital content. Evidence suggests he received financial support and guidance from members of the “Lakhta” project, while using cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum through platforms like Binance to move money internationally. Officials believe this system may have been linked to money laundering and illicit transnational financing.

During the raid, investigators also found evidence connecting Novikov to the sale and distribution of firearms, expanding the scope of the case. The Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that the defendant will face charges related to high-tech crimes, organized crime, and illicit trafficking, describing the arrest as one of the most significant regional blows against international disinformation networks.