Police Raid Gay Club Cabaret in St. Petersburg

On the night of July 4, 2026, riot police (OMON) raided the Cabaret nightclub in St. Petersburg, Russia. Officers interrupted a live show, checked visitors’ passports, and administered drug tests. According to Parni+ , several individuals were detained during the operation.

Russian state media outlets, including TASS and Ren TV, reported that the raid was prompted by suspicions of “public LGBT propaganda” and an investigation into alleged cases of mpox among patrons. The Baza Telegram channel noted that authorities are currently considering whether to open an administrative case.

According to eyewitnesses who spoke with the Dozhd TV channel, law enforcement focused primarily on the club’s staff. Officers reportedly inspected their phones for LGBT-related content and questioned them about their views on the LGBT community.