Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny, a prominent critic of President Vladimir Putin, has been found alive and is currently held in a penal colony in Siberia, as confirmed by his spokeswoman, Kira Yarmysh. 

The announcement followed a period of concern as Navalny’s team had lost contact with him since December 6, after his transfer from a previous prison.

“We found Alexei Navalny,” Yarmysh declared on Tuesday, revealing that his lawyer had seen him on that day, ensuring that he was in good condition. Navalny has been incarcerated since 2021, making him one of the key opponents of Putin’s regime.

Yarmysh shared the update on the Telegram messaging app, disclosing that Navalny had been moved to the IK-3 penal colony in Kharp, located in the northern region of Russia, after his previous detention in Melekhovo, east of Moscow. His relocation to a remote and challenging environment raised concerns among his team about the conditions he might face.

Ivan Zhadov, Navalny’s aide, emphasised that the move exemplifies how the system deals with political prisoners, aiming to isolate and suppress them. The IK-3 colony in Kharp is noted for its harsh conditions, adding to the apprehension regarding Navalny’s well-being.

Navalny’s absence from court hearings had heightened the worry among his supporters, and the confirmation of his location came as a relief. The charismatic campaigner gained recognition for his anti-corruption efforts, utilising video investigations that garnered millions of views. 

Despite facing adversity, including a poisoning incident in Siberia in 2020, where he was exposed to a nerve agent, Navalny remained a significant force in mobilising large-scale anti-government protests across Russia.

After being treated abroad for the poisoning, Navalny returned to Russia in 2021 only to be promptly arrested. His imprisonment has drawn international attention and condemnation, with concerns about the treatment of political dissenters in Russia. The confirmation of Navalny’s current location provides a crucial update on his status, addressing the uncertainties surrounding his whereabouts.