Russian authorities announce "counter-terrorist measures" in Moscow

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin has announced that a "counter-terrorist operation regime" is in place in the Russian capital.

Source: Sobyanin on Telegram; Andrey Vorobyov, the governor of Moscow Oblast, on Telegram

Quote: "In connection with the information coming in, anti-terrorist measures are being carried out in Moscow, aimed at strengthening security measures. Additional control has been introduced on the roads. The restriction of mass events is possible. Please be understanding of the measures being taken."

Details: Vorobyov also announced heightened security measures in Moscow Oblast.

Quote: "Security measures have been stepped up in Moscow Oblast; the situation is being controlled by law enforcement agencies and the FSB. Counter-terrorist measures are being carried out. Additional checks are possible on roads going south; in this regard, I am asking [citizens], if possible, to refrain from using personal vehicles in the south of Moscow Oblast, especially outside the region."

Update: Previously announced mass events in the Russian capital are reported to have been cancelled. The mayor thanked local residents "for their understanding and calm attitude to what is happening".

The media are issuing reminders of what the authorities can do under Russian law:

• They can check people's documents [ID]. People who don’t have their documents on them can be taken to a police station.
• People can be searched upon entering and exiting the counter-terrorism operation zone.
• Security forces can "remove individuals from certain areas and sites" and can tow cars away.
• The security services will have the right to listen in on telephone conversations and read any correspondence on the internet.
• The authorities can use cars belonging to any organisation or individual to provide first aid and pursue criminals.
• Any communications - both phone lines and internet access – may be cut off in the region.
• Officers of the security services can enter any premises without a court order for the purpose of "fighting terrorism".

Background: 

• Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed that the regular Russian army had launched a missile strike on the Wagnerites’ rear camps. According to him, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu flew to Rostov, where he personally conducted an operation to destroy the mercenaries. 
• Prigozhin’s 25,000 mercenaries are allegedly on their way "to restore justice". At the same time, he is asking people not to call this a "military coup". Prigozhin added that Shoigu had fled Rostov like a coward and said that "that creature will be stopped." The Russian Defence Ministry has called this a provocation.
• Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has been informed of the conflict between Prigozhin and Sergei Shoigu, the Russian Defence Minister. A criminal case is being brought against Prigozhin for incitement to armed rebellion.
• Photos of armoured vehicles on the streets of the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don are being posted on Russian social media following the statement made by Prigozhin about a de facto declaration of war against the Russian army. Checkpoints are being set up at entrances to Moscow.
• Prigozhin claimed that his mercenaries shot down a Russian army helicopter.
• Russian security officials have been regularly reporting to Russian President Vladimir Putin about the measures being taken to counter the "armed rebellion" started by Prigozhin. There are now issues with accessing the news in Russia.

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