Criminal case opened against Mauchanau and Mikalayeuski

A former political prisoner and his friend are accused of desecrating the state symbols under article 370 of the Criminal Code of Belarus.

The young men have been persecuted by police since state flags in Barysau centre were found covered with paint on October 26, Viasna human rights centre reports.

Alyaksandr’s Mauchanau’s flat was searched in early hours of October 27. Police officers were looking for forbidden national symbols and seized a computer. Alyaksandr was detained. Though policemen did not find any direct evidence, it was decided to neutralize him. On October 27, the Barysau district court found him guilty in violating article 23.4 of the Code of Administrative Offences and sentenced to ten days in custody. The second search, authorized by a prosecutor, was conducted in his flat.

Andrei Mikalayeuski’s flat was also searched on October 27. Policemen talked to the guy.

Violation of article 70 of the Criminal Code of Belarus carries punishment of community service, or a fine, or correctional labour for up to two years, or arrest for up to three months, or restriction of liberty for a year.