New Fines in Baranavichy

Activists detained during the trial over Young Front member Yaraslau Hryshchenia were fined on September 17th.

On September 17th, Baranavichy court heard the cases against Zmitser Kurha and Ela Olina. Together with other activists they were detained near the court building on September 10th. That day they came to support Young Front member Yaraslau Hryshchenia who had been charged under Article 193.1 of the Criminal Code -- activity on behalf of an unregistered organization.

Siarhei Housha, human rights defender from Baranavichy told Viasna, judge Zhanna Kapacheuskaya found Zmitser Kurha guilty of disorderly conduct (Article 17.1 of the Administrative Code) and organization or participation in an unauthorized mass event (Article 23.34 of the Administrative Code). The student of technological university was fined 5 basic units: 2 units – for the first infringement, and 3 units – for the second one. It’s worth mentioning that the day before the trial policemen and KGB officers visited Zmitser Kurha in the university. They threatened him with expulsion from college, and tried to put moral and psychological pressure on him. Policemen also visited Zmitser’s home, they talked to his parents and tried to intimidate them. Meanwhile, On September 10th Zmitser didn’t have classes, i.e. the trip to Baranavichy didn’t lead to absence from school.

Ela Olina could not attend the trial because of her poor health condition. The trial was held in her absence. Judge Zhanna Kapacheuskaya punished the woman 2 basic units on the charge of disorderly conduct (Article 17.1 of the Administrative Code). The case under Article 23.34 of the Administrative Code was sent back for revision.