Pavel Sapelka: The reasons why I was refused to visit places of detention are clearly outlined in my address to the Interior Ministry

Lawyer Pavel Sapelka has received a response to his request to the Department of Corrections of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The expert asked permission to visit penal facilities in order to monitor detention conditions. This right is enshrined in Article 22 of the Criminal Executive Code of the Republic of Belarus: "Representatives of the media and other persons are entitled to attend the institutions executing punishment upon agreement with the administration of these institutions or the corresponding higher authorities of penal institutions.”

The answer signed by Head of the Department of Corrections S. Daroshka surprises with the lack of any reasons for the ban.

"I inform you that your e-mail appeal sent to the official website of the Ministry of Internal Affairs has been considered by the Department of Corrections of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Belarus. Visiting the specialized facilities of the Interior is currently impractical.”

Commenting on the reply, Pavel Sapelka said: "The reasons why I was refused to visit places of detention are clearly set out in my appeal. The answer from the Department of Corrections is unmotivated and will be appealed to the Interior Ministry.”