Barnaul raid finds senior official referring pensioners derogatorily as "cockroaches"

Controversy Erupts in Barnaul's Dokuchaevsky Market

A heated debate has arisen in the city of Barnaul, Leninsky District, following an incident at the Dokuchaevsky market on Popova Street. On July 6, 2023, an employee of the Leninsky District Administration, during a raid on the market, posted a photo on WhatsApp of people hurriedly clearing their stalls. The caption, referring to the people as "cockroaches," has sparked outrage among residents.

The image, which was later deleted, showed the aftermath of the raid, with people frantically gathering their belongings. The caption, "Cockroaches saving their junk????" added fuel to the fire, as many in the community felt that the use of such derogatory language was unacceptable, especially towards individuals who are forced to sell on the streets due to poverty.

The Dokuchaevsky market, a long-standing illegal market in the area, is a common sight for residents. Regular raids by the Leninsky District Administration and the police aim to disperse traders, issue protocols, and remove leftover garbage. However, the latest raid and the employee's post have raised concerns about the administration's attitude towards the market's traders, particularly the vulnerable pensioners who are often seen selling goods to make ends meet.

Despite the residents' disapproval, the Leninsky District Administration has not commented on the employee's use of derogatory language. Moreover, they do not consider the post a serious violation. This lack of response has further fuelled the outrage, with many calling for accountability and respect for the market's traders.

It's important to note that Meta Corporation, the owner of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is recognized as extremist and banned in Russia. This incident, therefore, did not take place on a public social network, but on a private messenger service.

As the situation continues to unfold, the community in Barnaul's Leninsky District remains divided, with some expressing their support for the administration and others calling for change. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for empathy and respect, particularly towards those who are most vulnerable in our society.

Barnaul raid finds senior official referring pensioners derogatorily as "cockroaches"