Mahiliou journalist Barys Vyrvich searched and questioned but eventually released
This is reported by the Viasna Human Rights Center. Vyrvich formerly served as the editor-in-chief for the 6TV.by news outlet.
According to human rights activists, authorities searched Vyrvich’s home in the Bialynichy District, confiscating all electronic equipment and mobile phones.
Viasna suggests that the search may relate to the State Security Committee’s decision to declare 6TV.by an “extremist formation” on 4 December 2023.
The Mahiliou journalists, Dzmitry Salauiou, Uladzimir Laptsevich, and Aliaksandr Burakou Sr, were identified by the KGB as a group of citizens accountable for carrying out “extremist activities” on certain media platforms.
Under current Belarusian law, individuals identified as members of an extremist formation may face criminal charges for creating or participating in such a formation or facilitating extremist activity. These offenses carry penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment.
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