At least one detained in solidarity rally in Minsk

At least one participant of today’s rally of solidarity with prisoners of conscience in Minsk’s central Kastrychnitskaya Square has been detained by plain clothes riot policemen.

Maksim Viniarski, activist of the European Belarus opposition movement, was detained at about 7 p.m., as he was being interviewed by RFE/RL. He was reportedly taken to Tsentralny District police department and is likely to face charges under Art. 23.34 of the Administrative Code (“violation of mass event organizing procedures”). Earlier today, the activist received an official warning of possible prosecution in case of involvement in the unauthorized rally.

Another activist, former political prisoner Vasil Parfiankou may also have been detained, as he was seen being followed by plainclothes policemen. He is currently not available by phone.