Christian activist dies in Russian custody, new concerns rise

Stephen J. By Bose, Worth News Europe Bureau Chief

Moscow/Budapest (meaningful news) – Worthy News learned Monday that a prominent Christian preacher and activist known for his anti-war views has died in Russian custody.

Khristolub Bozhi, 43, known online as the “Vegan Christ-Lover of God”, died after being transferred to a pre-trial detention center, according to the advocacy group International Christian Concern (ICC), which closely followed the case.

Bozhi earlier this month reported being placed in solitary confinement immediately after his transfer. “As soon as I arrived, I was given five days to be alone… then 15 more days, nothing at all,” he said in comments cited by supporters.

He had faced prosecution by Russian authorities since late 2023 over his outspoken views on religion – including criticism of Islam – and online posts related to the war in Ukraine.

custody and punishment

A court in Russia’s Voronezh region had reportedly sentenced Bozhi to three years in a colony-settlement in February 2025 on charges of hurting religious sentiments and promoting banned material.

Authorities also ordered psychiatric treatment, which critics say is sometimes used in politically sensitive cases.

Earlier this month, Bozhi was transferred to a detention facility and put into isolation again, raising concerns among those close to him about his treatment.

“He had a strained relationship with the administration,” a source familiar with the situation said. There were also reports of conflicts with fellow prisoners.

death under dispute

Christian sources said that Bozi’s father was informed on 17 April that his son had died, but he was informed of the circumstances a few days later, when he was called to collect the body.

Officials claimed that the activist was found hanging in his cell, indicating suicide. However, relatives have strongly disputed that account.

Family members said Bozhi had previously gone on hunger strike under pressure and feared for his life, at one point saying authorities wanted to leave him to rot in custody.

A criminal case has been opened under Article 293 of the Criminal Code of Russia, which concerns negligence.

Pattern of worker death

Bozhi is not the only activist to die in Russian custody. He was reportedly the third pacifist prisoner to die within a month, a pattern that has alarmed rights advocates.

Investigative outlet SOTAvision reported that surveillance cameras near his cell may not have been functioning at the time of his death, although this has not been independently confirmed.

In his writings and videos, including on the YouTube platform, Bozhi described himself as a Christian activist, pacifist, and preacher advocating peace rather than war.

In one of his last public protests, he held a sign reading: “Jesus commanded to love enemies, not to murder, for God is love. Murderers do not inherit the kingdom of God.”

Rights advocates say his death underscores the growing risks facing outspoken activists in Russia, particularly those critical of the war in Ukraine or government policies.

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