DECEMBER 2, 2022 | UPDATED: MAY 30, 2025
RUSSIA

UPDATE—BROTHER IMPRISONED | “I Am Doing Something Very Important”

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On May 30, 2025, the Leninskiy District Court of Tambov convicted Brother Oleg Sirotkin and sentenced him to six years in prison. He was taken into custody from the courtroom.

Profile

Oleg Sirotkin

Born: 1964 (Yaroslavl, Yaroslavl Region)

Biography: Works as a sales manager at a chemical factory

Married Nataliya in 2000. First introduced to Jehovah’s Witnesses when his mother began to study. Was pleased to have his questions answered directly from the Bible. Baptized along with his wife in 2007

They raised two daughters

Personal Comments

What has helped you to remain calm during this trial?

Right before my first court hearing, a brother gave me some wonderful reminders. He said: “Remember that no matter what the outcome is, you are already victorious in Jehovah’s eyes. You are not there to vindicate yourself but to defend God’s name and his sovereignty, which is an honor.” He then added: “You will feel as if your Father is taking you by the hand and leading you into the courtroom. He will be right there with you.” These thoughts still uplift me, give me courage, and remind me that I am doing something very important.

Oleg’s example is a wonderful reminder that with strong faith in Jehovah, a person “will not fear bad news. His heart is steadfast, trusting in Jehovah.”—Psalm 112:7.

Time Line

March 2021

Surveillance secretly initiated. Audio recorder hidden in Oleg’s living room and screenshots taken of computer activity
September 14, 2021

Criminal case initiated
September 21, 2021

Home searched. Computer and personal records confiscated and submitted as evidence
October 22, 2021

Car seized
April 11, 2022

Criminal trial began

Jehovah’s Witnesses