Moscow authorities restrict publication of photos and videos of aftermath of drone strikes

MOSCOW, May 13 (Reuters) – Moscow authorities have imposed restrictions on the publication of photos and videos showing the consequences of “terrorist attacks” including drone strikes, Mayor Sergei Sobyanin’s office said on Wednesday.

The order, which appeared on the mayor’s official website and referred to the city’s “Counter-Terrorism Commission,” said the directive was aimed at “preventing the spread of unreliable information.”

This law prevents the media, as well as individuals and emergency services, from publishing any images or videos of “terrorist acts, including drone strikes” until they appear on the Ministry of Defense or city government websites.

“Restrictions also apply to the consequences of attacks using unmanned aerial vehicles and other means of destruction, actions aimed at harming the life and health of citizens, or actions aimed at damaging property, including critical infrastructure,” the decision said.

It was stated that the restrictions do not apply to announcements intended to protect public order.

It was stated that violations would be punishable by fines of between $400 and $680 for individuals, while much higher amounts would be imposed on officials or legal entities.

Other regions of Russia have already implemented similar bans.

(Reporting by Maxim Rodionov; Editing by Philippa Fletcher)