Russian Cult Leader Arrested in Argentina on Human Trafficking Charges

Konstantin Rudnev was arrested in Argentina

Konstantin Rudnev, a convicted Russian cult leader known for bizarre esoteric claims and previous sexual abuse convictions, has been arrested in Argentina on fresh charges related to human trafficking. He was detained in the city of Bariloche alongside 13 others, including several women who were seen being handcuffed and taken into custody by authorities.

Rudnev was sentenced to 11 years in prison in Siberia in August 2013 for sexually abusing his female followers. He led a cult called Ashram Shambala, which he founded in the late 1980s in Novosibirsk. Known to his followers as the “Great Shaman Shri Dzhnan Avatar Muni,” Rudnev claimed to be a god from the star Sirius and often described himself as an alien with mystical powers.

Rudnev after his arrest by Argentine Police officers

With an estimated 20,000 followers across Russia and parts of the former Soviet Union, Rudnev promoted a blend of yoga, mysticism, and ritualistic orgies. His inner circle reportedly included women who danced naked around him during gatherings, videos of which were later leaked. Former members described being psychologically manipulated, forced to sell their possessions, and compelled to hand over their money.

Rudnev, a former military officer, was first arrested in 2010 with a small quantity of heroin in his possession and was later convicted for his involvement in criminal activities tied to the cult. His reemergence in Argentina, over a decade after his original conviction, comes amid serious allegations involving a pregnant woman, possibly a minor, who had reportedly visited hospitals multiple times in the company of Rudnev’s followers. Authorities are now investigating whether Rudnev is the father of the unborn child.

Some of the women arrested with Rudnev by Argentine Police officers

He was arrested Friday night at Bariloche Airport while attempting to board a flight to Buenos Aires, with plans to connect to a flight to Porto Alegre, Brazil. During his arrest, Rudnev reportedly tried to cut his throat with a razor. Images taken shortly afterward show him with a bandage wrapped around his neck.

While Argentine authorities have yet to release detailed information about the ongoing investigation, the case centers on the suspected trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable individuals. Further developments are expected as law enforcement officials continue to examine the extent of Rudnev’s operations in the region.