Russia is simply trying to hide the evidence of its brutal campaign in Chechnya from the eyes of the international community. Human Rights Watch also expressed concern about the dangerous working conditions faced by journalists working in the region. Journalists have been kidnaped on numerous occasions by shadowy groups operating in the region. Dmitry Balburov, a correspondent for Moscovski Novosti, was kidnaped in Nazran, the capital of Ingushetia on October 4, and was freed inside Chechnya in early January 2000. Other reporters have been kidnaped in the region, as well as other Russians and foreigners such as aid workers.
Journalists have a right to do their job without constant harassment.
Covering a war is difficult enough without constant harassment and the danger of being kidnapped.