Moscow: The Investigative Committee has placed rapper Alisher Morgenstern on the wanted list amid a preliminary investigation into a criminal case concerning violations of foreign agent activity rules. Morgenstern has been recognized in Russia as a foreign agent, as reported by APA citing Izvestiya.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the investigation led to the decision to declare Morgenstern wanted on both federal and interstate levels. This action is part of an ongoing investigation into allegations that Morgenstern violated part 2 of article 330.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, which pertains to the order of activity of a foreign agent.

Sergei Zhorin, the artist’s lawyer, argues that there were no grounds for such measures. He stated that his client is not evading the investigation and that Morgenstern’s whereabouts are known to the authorities, as he is currently undergoing medical treatment-a fact he has publicly acknowledged.

Previously, on January 18, Morgenstern’s assets were seized. The Moscow Prosecutor’s Office is overseeing the investigation against the musician. Zhorin also mentioned that the Investigative Committee of Russia has formally accused Morgenstern of violating the law on foreign agents, according to his earlier remarks to Izvestiya.