Political prisoner Statkevich prohibited to read opposition press
Siarhei Skrabets, a party fellow of imprisoned
Mikalai Statkevich, received a package with newspapers he had earlier sent to
the political prisoner in a prison in Hrodna.
He saw a stamp “banned” on the package, RFE/RL reports.
“There is a stamp saying he cannot receive mail. I don't know why, but I think
it's because I sent him “Narodnaya Volia” and “BelGazeta” newspapers. Though as
far as I know, prisoners are allowed to read “Narodnaya Volia”. But why is
“BelGazeta” guilty? I was surprised. When I was in prison, I received all
newspapers. Either they find Statkevich very dangerous, or these newspapers are
considered banned – I don't know.
By the way, I also sent a short letter, just three lines to support Mikalai.
The letter was not returned. He possibly received the letter, but the
newspapers did not pass censorship. But I do not rule out the letter might have
been destroyed. He once wrote me, not by official mail, they show him a letter
and then destroy it. He cannot read it. And he signs a paper saying he saw the
letter to him was destroyed,” Skrabets says.
