Russian cult leader investigation: Authorities in Argentina probe a possible human trafficking and sex slavery operation linked to Konstantin Rudnev. On March 21, 2025, doctors in the Patagonian city of Bariloche went on high alert when a 22-year-old Russian woman, accompanied by two others, arrived at the hospital to give birth.
The woman appeared malnourished, and her companions were overly controlling, refusing to allow her to speak. They insisted on recording the baby’s last name as Rudnev, the name of the alleged cult leader at the center of an ongoing investigation.
The Cult Leader: Konstantin Rudnev
Rudnev, the founder of the Ashram Shambala religious group, is known for his controversial and extreme teachings. A former mechanical engineering graduate, he proclaimed himself an “alien from Sirius” sent to Earth to save humanity. His cult had a significant presence in Russia and recruited thousands of followers, many of whom severed ties with their families to join the group.
The group’s teachings include rejecting family life, having children, working, or studying, and instead focusing on complete submission to Rudnev’s leadership. His cult activities led to criminal charges in Russia, including rape and sexual assault. In 2013, a court sentenced him to 11 years in prison. However, his followers prevented his conviction from moving forward by refusing to testify.
Investigating Human Trafficking and Coercion
Argentine authorities suspect that Rudnev’s group recruited women for sex trafficking, possibly using forced pregnancies to gain Argentine citizenship. Investigations reveal evidence of control and coercion, including malnourishment in a number of women detained throughout the operation.
Authorities found blacked-out windows, mattresses on the ground, and large amounts of cocaine, satellite phones, and other illicit goods during a search of their residences. Authorities are still piecing together the entire scope of Rudnev’s organization and the links between his supporters and alleged illegal activity.
The Present Investigation
Although Rudnev and his pals have not been indicted in Argentina, prosecutors are still investigating the wider network, focusing on possible human trafficking, sex slavery, and a plot to get Argentine citizenship. Investigators believe the cult-like behavior may be global in extent, and more than 20 Russian people are participating in the investigation.
Source: CNN