Rally leader fined

Pukhavichy district court sentenced Siarhei Abrazouski to a fine of 1,400,000 roubles for organizing an unauthorized action of protest against the construction of a chemicals plant. Abrazouski considers himself innocent and is going to appeal the decision.

The action took place in the village of Druzhny, Pukhavichy district, Minsk region, on March 22. Abrazouski along with a number of activists had applied for a permit to hold the action but their claims were left unsatisfied.

The plant is to be constructed by a Russian company Avgust-Bel. It will produce hazardous chemicals, which is opposed by the people living in the neighbouring villages.

A group of activists have launched a campaign, trying to attract attention to the feasibility of the construction.