OSCE representative defends moderators of opposition Internet groups

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media says that the detentions affect the freedom of speech and violate Belarus' obligations in the OSCE, informs BelaPAN.

Let us remind you that moderators of Internet communities Andrei Tkachou, Pavel Yeutsiheyeu and Raman Pratasevich were detained in Minsk on August 30. Aleh Shramuk was detained in Vitsebsk. Their flats were searched and their computers were confiscated.

Tkachou was sentenced to seven days of arrest and Yeutsiheyeu  - to five. Minor Pratasevich was let off after a 4-hour interrogation, threats and beating. Shramuk was also released. Syarhei Byaspalau fled from Belarus.