Yahoo News Opposition activists in Russia are 'using fidget spinners' in an plot to overthrow Vladimir Putin
Anti-Putin protestors in Russia are reportedly using fidget spinners in an attempt to persuade young Russians to join their ranks.
Opposition parties are reportedly attempting to garner support by selling the hugely popular toy to youngsters – in an attempt to both raise funds and persuade them to join their cause.
Footage posted on Youtube has also shown a video blogger selling the spinners during anticorruption demonstrations which were held in June.
Now, pro-Kremlin website PolitRussia.ru has claimed that the spinners are being used to ‘zombify’ the youth of Russia.
A report on the website claims: ‘In such a manner, our opposition is luring the youth. Those who understand political technologies, they understand very clearly that this simple thing is controlling the masses.’
An investigation into the toys has also been launched by Rospotrebnadzor, Russia’s consumer protection agency.
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‘There has been an aggressive promotion of so-called spinners among children and teenagers in Russia recently,’ the agency announced in a statement.
‘Taking into consideration the anxiety among the community of parents and teachers, Rospotrebnadzor, in cooperation with child health research institutions, will study the effect spinners are having on children, including the possible negative impact.’
