Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) announced on Sunday that it had detained a minor following a warning from the US Embassy in Moscow about a credible threat of a mass-casualty attack at the Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve.
The detention followed security operations launched after the US Embassy alerted authorities to a potential attack at the popular palace museum and park complex in the Russian capital.
According to the FSB, planned cultural events at the museum-reserve were cancelled and security measures were strengthened in the surrounding area.
“As a result of these operations, a Russian minor was detained,” the security agency said in a statement.
The FSB alleged that the teenager had posted videos on TikTok showing himself wearing tactical equipment, including a balaclava, goggles and a headset, while holding an object resembling an automatic weapon.
He had also reportedly uploaded photographs taken at the museum-reserve with the caption: “I found a place.”
During a search of the minor’s residence, investigators recovered clothing and accessories resembling those seen in the videos.
The FSB said an examination of his electronic devices revealed a TikTok account allegedly used to publish threats, a subscription to a neo-Nazi Telegram channel and numerous searches relating to previous terrorist attacks and mass killings.
The agency thanked the United States for providing information that assisted Russian authorities in responding to the threat.
On Saturday, the US Embassy had warned of “a credible threat of a mass casualty event” at a palace museum and park reserve in Moscow, advising people to avoid the area, remain vigilant and stay away from crowds.
The embassy also confirmed that Washington was coordinating with Russian authorities over the security concern.
Russian officials have not disclosed the minor’s identity or announced any formal charges. The reported threat and the suspect’s alleged intentions remain under investigation.