Two Russians Convicted of Terrorism and Espionage in Angola

Two Russians, former political consultant Igor Ratchin and translator Lev Lakshtanov, were found guilty of terrorism, espionage and other crimes at an Angolan court in Luanda. Ratchin received 11 years in prison, while Lakshtanov was sentenced to eight years.

The trial followed their arrest in August over allegations that they had organised anti‑government protests, launched a campaign of disinformation and tried to interfere with the 2026 presidential election.

Angolan prosecutors said the defendants were linked to a Russian political network, Africa Politology, linked to the now‑defunct Wagner mercenary group. The group allegedly promoted anti‑Western narratives, cultivated political contacts and aimed to influence Angolan politics.

Igor Ratchin and Lev Lakshtanov denied any ties to the Wagner group or the Russian state, claiming the payments they made to local journalists were for legitimate services. They also said any meeting with political figures was aimed at establishing a Russian cultural centre in Luanda.

Two Angolans—sports journalist Amor Carlos Tomé and activist Francisco Oliveira—were also on trial with similar charges. Tomé received a two‑year suspended sentence and Oliveira was acquitted. Both defendants denied involvement in the alleged influence operation.

The court’s decision was challenged immediately by prosecutors, but the judges upheld the verdict. Tomé remains in custody pending appeal, while Ratchin and Lakshtanov begin their sentences.

Angolan police seized laptops, documents and mobile devices that were presented as evidence, including unpublished notes and photographs linked to the 2025 protests. Lawyers have criticised the indictment for alleged misspellings and factual errors.

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