In a shocking turn of events, the popular Telegram channel VChK-OGPU, which boasted over a million subscribers, has mysteriously vanished from the platform. This channel, known for its leaks from security forces and coverage of criminal activities, disappeared in the early hours of April 7, 2025. Its representatives claim that the removal was likely orchestrated by Telegram's management, following pressure from Russian authorities.
VChK-OGPU had been a significant player in the Russian information landscape, often publishing sensational content related to the Russian establishment and security services. One of its last posts discussed a lawsuit against Russian politician Anatoly Chubais and other top executives from Rosnano. Another highlighted the arrest of Dmitry Fosman, the general director of the agricultural company Blago Invest, by a Moscow court.
In recent months, the channel had faced increasing scrutiny from the Russian government. In December 2024, a Moscow court ruled that Telegram must remove VChK-OGPU along with several other channels for allegedly spreading information that destabilized the socio-political situation in Russia. Following this ruling, VChK-OGPU was recognized as a foreign agent by the Ministry of Justice in July 2024, which further complicated its operations.
According to the reserve channel of VChK-OGPU, which emerged shortly after the main channel's disappearance, the removal occurred without any prior warning. They stated, "Everything indicates that this was done by the Telegram management!" The reserve channel has since been used to communicate with followers and provide updates on the situation.
Telegram's official position, however, contradicts these claims. The messenger's press service stated that the channel was removed by its owners, possibly due to unauthorized access, and that they are currently conducting an investigation. This assertion has been met with skepticism by the VChK-OGPU team, who insist that there was no unauthorized access, and that the channel's controlling account was blocked by Telegram itself.
As the situation unfolds, some observers speculate that the removal of VChK-OGPU could be linked to broader efforts by Russian authorities to clamp down on independent media and dissenting voices. The channel's founders, former journalists Alexander Shvarev and Alisher Abdullaev, are currently facing legal challenges in Russia, including being placed on an international wanted list in connection with a high-profile extortion case.
In light of the recent developments, there are growing concerns about the implications for other Telegram channels. The removal of VChK-OGPU raises questions about the future of independent journalism in Russia and the extent to which Telegram will comply with government demands. The channel's disappearance has already spurred discussions among users and media analysts about the potential for a wider crackdown on platforms that facilitate free expression.
As of now, the reserve channel continues to operate, but its longevity remains uncertain. The administrators have expressed hope that the removal of VChK-OGPU was not directly sanctioned by Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, and that it was instead the result of actions taken by individual members of his team.
In a broader context, the disappearance of VChK-OGPU reflects a troubling trend in which the Russian government is increasingly targeting platforms and channels that provide an alternative narrative to state-controlled media. This has raised alarms among activists and independent journalists who fear that their voices may soon be silenced.
The incident also highlights the precarious position of social media platforms like Telegram, which must navigate the delicate balance between user privacy, freedom of speech, and compliance with governmental regulations. As the platform faces pressure from various governments, the future of channels like VChK-OGPU hangs in the balance.
In conclusion, the removal of VChK-OGPU serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by independent media in Russia. As authorities continue to exert control over information, the implications for free speech and journalistic integrity remain profound.
