Agency for National Security and Ministry of Internal Affairs carry out raid against pro‑Russian information network
A Macedonian citizen is suspected of spreading Russian propaganda and faces charges including incitement of national, racial and religious hatred.
The Agency for National Security (ANB), in coordination with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Public Prosecutor's Office, carried out a search of a private residence in a coordinated operation targeting a pro‑Russian information network in North Macedonia. Authorities say a Macedonian citizen is suspected of disseminating Russian propaganda and faces criminal charges related to hate speech and unlawful handling of official information.
The ANB said the suspect is being investigated on grounds of "incitement of national, racial and religious hatred, discord and intolerance", "disclosure of an official secret" and "spreading racist and xenophobic material via a computer system". During the search of the home, officials seized items that are now subject to further forensic analysis, the agency added.
According to investigators, the recent actions are part of a continuity of previously disrupted pro‑Russian hybrid activities linked to broader propaganda networks; an earlier criminal complaint was already filed against a related individual for spreading racist and xenophobic material through computer systems.
Security experts call for thorough probes
Security analysts say it is not surprising that external actors attempt to influence the information space through such mechanisms. They argue that any investigation must be comprehensive and methodical because it involves alleged foreign influence. If ties to a foreign state are proven — and authorities have pointed to the Russian Federation as a possible source — the state should consider delivering a formal diplomatic protest to the embassy.
This is not the first case of its kind this year. In March, the Skopje prosecutor opened a case against a 30‑year‑old Skopje resident who used a specially created Facebook page to share content that fomented national and ethnic discrimination and encouraged hostility toward the Macedonian state and identity.
Authorities said the probe is ongoing; they did not release the suspect's name or further operational details while forensic examinations and legal procedures continue.
Photo: press material from the event
