Russian police raided multiple bars and nightclubs in Moscow on Saturday, intensifying the crackdown on LGBTQ+ communities. Officers seized smartphones, laptops, and video cameras while inspecting documents of patrons, state media reported.

The raids coincided with the one-year anniversary of Russia’s Supreme Court declaring the “LGBTQ+ movement” an “extremist organization.” This ruling followed years of restrictions targeting LGBTQ+ rights under President Vladimir Putin’s push for “traditional family values.”

Social media footage showed police ordering people to lie on the floor at Moscow’s Arma nightclub during the raid. Mono bar was also targeted. The club’s management posted on Telegram, stating, “They didn’t find anything forbidden. We live in such times, but life must go on.”

Crackdown Extends to Individuals and Adoption Laws

Authorities also detained the head of the “Men Travel” tour agency under anti-LGBTQ+ laws, accusing him of organizing a trip for LGBTQ+ supporters. Tass reported that the trip was planned for Russia’s New Year’s holidays in Egypt.

Activists warned that labeling the LGBTQ+ movement as “extremist” allows authorities to target individuals or groups arbitrarily.

The crackdown coincides with other laws aimed at enforcing “traditional values.” On November 23, Putin banned Russian child adoption by citizens of countries where gender-affirming care is legal. He also signed a law outlawing materials discouraging people from having children.