MINSK, 10 August (BelTA) – Criminal proceedings have been launched upon facts of mass riots and violence against police personnel, BelTA learned from Chairman of the Investigative Committee of Belarus Ivan Noskevich.
The official noted that criminal proceedings were launched after mass riots in Minsk and other regions of the country on the night between 9 August and 10 August. All the illegal actions were accompanied by violence against police personnel. Dozens of police officers were injured.
Property was also damaged during the mass riots. The rioters demonstrated disobedience before authorities as well. The rioters used garbage containers, benches, sticks, paving stones, glass bottles, and flammable liquids as crime instruments. Over 100 investigators are now working at the sites of the incidents, the official said.
Many of the suspects and those that have been apprehended are in a state of intoxication. CCTV footage was seized. Police are working to find out the identity of the persons, who were involved in the mass riots. All of them will be prosecuted.
Charges have already been filed for the organization of mass riots and for the participation in mass riots. If sentenced, these people may be sent to prison for up to 8 years and up to 15 years respectively.
Ivan Noskevich mentioned that parties, who are interested in mass riots, use crowds as a tool to further their goals. They rely on human psychology to direct crowd actions. “I urge people not to fall for provocations and calls for disrupting public order. Law enforcement agencies will take every measure to protect the constitutional system,” the official assured.
