A music teacher by training, Lada-Rus first gained attention in the 1990s after opening an occult healing center in Samara. Her center became a hub for spiritual practices and alternative healing methods, drawing followers from across the region. However, her activities eventually drew scrutiny from local authorities, leading to her eventual exile.
The court in Samara has now sentenced the exiled cult leader to eight years in prison, citing her involvement in organized criminal activities and the misuse of her influence over followers. Authorities have claimed that her organization engaged in illegal financial transactions and had links to organized crime networks, which contributed to the charges against her.
The case has sparked discussions about the regulation of spiritual and healing practices in the region. Local officials have emphasized the need for stricter oversight to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable individuals through fraudulent practices. Lada-Rus’s legal team has stated that the charges are politically motivated and that they will appeal the verdict.