Russian 'fashion guru' Arthur Sita accused of grooming and harassment in Moscow-based cult

New allegations have emerged against Arthur Sita (real name Arthur Mamedov), a Moscow-based influencer who built a business empire across Moscow, Dubai, and Thailand. A former co-host and a 19-year-old member have accused him of sexual harassment and grooming. Investigative reporting by Meduza reveals a system of psychological and physical abuse against women within his community.

Russian investigative outlet Meduza has published new details about Arthur Sita, also known as Arthur Mamedov, a self-styled 'fashion guru' who operates a cult-like community with a presence in Moscow, Dubai, and Thailand. The report details a pattern of psychological and physical abuse targeting women and minors within his inner circle.

The story first gained widespread public attention in September 2024, when Meduza reported how Sita had built a business empire exploiting the unpaid labour of his followers. Now, two additional accusers have come forward with serious allegations. Lola Gruzdeva, who previously served as Sita's co-host on his YouTube channel, has accused him of sexual harassment.

## New Accusers Come Forward

Nine months after Gruzdeva's accusations, 19-year-old Elizaveta Zotova — who joined the community as a teenager alongside her parents — has accused Sita of grooming. Zotova's account offers a rare inside look at how the group operates, including an alleged rule that members who speak to outsiders about life inside the community will be 'cursed'.

Journalist and podcast host Ksenia Morozova, who produces the 'History of Deception' podcast, conducted in-depth interviews with Gruzdeva and other former members at Meduza's request. Her findings describe a structured system of control, manipulation, and violence used to keep women compliant and isolated from the outside world.

## Broader Dangers of Influencer Cults

Sita has not yet publicly responded to the latest accusations. The case has drawn renewed attention to the dangers of unregulated influencer-led communities in Russia, where followers can become financially and psychologically dependent on charismatic public figures.