The case against Ayaz Shabutdinov, the controversial figure behind several high-profile educational programs, has taken center stage as more details emerge about his alleged fraudulent activities. According to reports from the Moscow Prosecutor's Office, Shabutdinov is at the center of an investigation involving accusations of fraud totaling over 57 million rubles.
Shabutdinov, who has been detained since November 2023 following his arrest, faces charges of engaging in 113 counts of fraud under part 4 of Article 159 of the Russian Criminal Code. This provision pertains to fraud committed by an organized group or involving significant amounts of money. Prosecutors confirmed on January 28, 2025, the completion of preliminary investigations, leading to the formal indictment being prepared against him.
According to the prosecution, Shabutdinov’s schemes misled approximately 80 individuals who sought to purchase his various educational courses, which were marketed as tools for achieving entrepreneurial success. Instead, these programs are alleged to have provided no tangible benefit, leading to financial losses for the participants.
Reports indicate the criminal case has grown remarkably, now exceeding 100 volumes, as investigators continue to unravel the depths of Shabutdinov's alleged offenses. "The investigation has revealed extensive evidence of fraudulent activities, and we are committed to ensuring justice for all victims," stated officials from the prosecutor's office.
Shabutdinov's legal troubles don't end there; he is also implicated in other fraud-related cases involving associates from his operations, including Vasily Alekseev, the director of Shabutdinov's enterprise, the 'Like Center.' Alekseev is currently wanted and has reportedly fled the country, complicate matters for Shabutdinov's defense.
Despite the mounting allegations and evidence against him, Shabutdinov has maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal. His attorney, Dmitry Grigoriyadi, expressed frustration over the proceedings. "We will diligently review every piece of evidence against him," he stated to TASS. Shabutdinov's defense team argues the charges stem from mischaracterizations of his actions, asserting there is no malintent behind the offering of business training programs.
The Moscow City Court has extended Shabutdinov's detention multiple times, most recently allowing his incarceration to continue until at least February 27, 2025. This decision underscored the severity of the charges and the perceived flight risk posed by Shabutdinov and potentially other co-defendants.
While there are calls from some of Shabutdinov's students, who have signed petitions for his release, arguing for his character and his supposed contributions to their personal growth, the courts have remained steadfast, emphasizing the significance of the allegations against him. "The court's decision reflects the seriousness of the charges under consideration," commented a legal analyst.
The growing public interest and social media discourse surrounding this case underline broader concerns about the legitimacy of online education platforms and the adequacy of regulations governing them. Consumer advocates are now urging stricter scrutiny and oversight to protect prospective students from future scams.
These developments mark significant moments not only for Shabutdinov but for the educational services industry as well, drawing attention to the importance of accountability and consumer rights.