Mikhail Paulaw, an activist of the Human Rights Center “Spring”, was detained by the policemen in Vitsebsk on October 13, 2004.

The activist of “Spring” was detained for distribution of leaflets which contained information concerning the issue of the referendum. He was brought to the police-station where a statement of the case was drawn up. Mikhail Pawlaw was accused of violation of article 172-3 (distribution of printed materials without data line). During personal examination 12 pills of “Metionil” which is freely sold at the drug stores were found with him. They do not contain any strong narcotic and appear to be a kind of extract from a usual curd. No matter that the policemen got explanations from the head drug store a statement was drawn on the case of requisition of the medical substance which was sent for the expertise. The statement of administrative violation was sent for consideration of the administrative commission. While his staying in the police station Mikhail Pawlaw heard the officer on duty captain Abramovich was giving an order to the policemen at the electoral districts: to inform him immediately about voters who come to the electoral districts.

”SPRING” INFORMATION DEPARTMENT