Opposition activists taken into custody ahead of Freedom Day

Administrative cases against detained activists Mikalai Dzyamidzenka, Anastasia Shuleika and Mikhail Kastko were heard in the Maskouski district court of Minsk today.

A report over article 17.1 of the Code of Administrate Offenses (disorderly conduct) was drawn up against Young Front activist Mikalai Dzyamidzenka. The trial was conducted by judge Jury Sezin. Trial against Anastasia Shuleika was conducted by judge Tatsyana Matyl, Viasna human rights centre reports.

Judge Matyl also heard the case of Mikhail Kastko. The activists are accused of organizing and participating in an unauthorized action (article 23.34 of the Code of Administrative Offenses). They raised a national white-red-white flag in the shopping centre“Stolitsa”. The activists were given five days in custody each.

Police officers in the court building hindered people to attend the trial.