Former Customs Officer Was Tried At Valadarka Detention Center Due To Poor Health

He and his colleagues were accused of "treason" and "extremism".

Former customs officer Yauhen Hurynovich was tried at the Detention Center #1 on Valadarka due to his state of health. He and two ex-colleagues were charged with eight articles, including "treason" and "extremism", according to the Viasna Human Rights Center.

The case against Yauhen Hurynovich is separated and is being considered at the place of detention in the Detention Center #1. According to human rights activists, such a measure is associated with serious health problems: the accused has an intervertebral hernia, because of which he cannot sit and stand for a long time.

More than ten trials have already taken place in the case of Hurynovich on Valadarka. The last hearing was held on March 15.

From October 10, 2023, to February 6, 2024, a closed hearing was held in the Minsk City Court against Yauhen Hurynovich, Viktar Novik and Uladzimir Zhuromski. All three men were employees of the Customs Committee. The details of the case are unknown to human rights activists.

The judge is Siarhei Khripach, known for numerous politically motivated sentences.

In total, they were tried under eight articles of the Criminal Code. Among other things, they are accused of "treason against the state", "promoting extremist activities", "exceeding official powers", "inciting other social enmity", "creating or participating in extremist groups".

It is known that Uladzimir Zhuromski was eventually sentenced to 12 years in a penal colony and a large fine, Viktar Novik was sentenced to 13 years in a penal colony and 20,000 rubles fine.