Hrodna journalist asks police to find online detractors

August 11, Hrodna journalist Andrei Mialeshka filed a written appeal to the Kastryčnicki District Police Department of Hrodna, asking to identify the persons who distributed defaming information and insults in his address at stopopp.com.

Mr. Mialeshka asks to draw these persons to administrative liability under Art. 9.2 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Republic of Belarus, which envisages a fine of 10-30 basic units for libel.

Major Skuratau, who accepted the appeal of Andrei Mialiashka told the journalist if it was proved that the actions of these persons towards the applicant were public even a criminal case could be brought against them. The police promised to give the journalist a preliminary reply within ten days.

The anonymous website stopopp.com specializes mainly on denigration of Hrodna activists and representatives of democratic parties.