Feb 09, 2015

Crimean Tatars: Akhtem Chiygoz to be Detained until 19 February


Russian law enforcement announced on 29 January 2015 that it will refuse Akhtem Chiygoz bail, keeping him in detention for three weeks until 19 February. This is a continuation of the repression of Crimean Tatars in the occupied Crimean Peninsula.

Below is an article published by the Ukrainian Embassy in the USA:

After a raid on the premises of the Crimean Tatar ATR TV channel, Russian occupation authorities detained Akhtem Chiygoz, the Deputy Chairman оf the supreme representative and executive body of the Crimean Tatar people known as the “Mejlis”.

Chiygoz is accused of participation in pro-Ukrainian rally near the Crimean Parliament on February 26, 2014 and the deaths of two people during the event.

On January 29, Russian law enforcement officials announced that Chiygoz will be detained for at least three weeks until February 19. He faces up to 10 years in prison according to charges of the Russian Public Prosecutor. On January 30, Chiygoz's house was searched.

This groundless detention is a part of Russia's continuing policy of discrimination and repression against national minorities in Crimea.

Ukraine calls on international community to condemn the acts of persecution and terror against the Crimean Tatars in Crimea.

Photo courtesy of Krymedia