Hrodna independent journalists fined

On August 19 Yury Kazakevich (Leninski District Court of Hrodna) found Ales Kirkevich and Ales Dzianisau guilty of violation under Art. 22.9 AC and fined 50 basic units (Br9 millions), BAJ press service informs.

It should be recalled that the video about exhibition of Lithuanian dolls in Hrodna was the reason for the case; it was launched on the site of Belsat - Polish TV channel - which broadcasts in Belarus.

Journalists are accused of illegal production and dissemination of information. This way the police and courts qualify work for foreign mass media without accreditation.

The trial began on July 23, but the judge decided to refer the materials to the police. On August 14 the proceedings resumed, although journalists were absent. The court heard witnesses – artist Aliaksandr Silvanovich and his wife, director of an Exhibition Hall Iryna Silvanovich. They confirmed the information about the interview.

The total fine exceeds Br146 million (more than €9 000).