The Russian occupation administration in Crimea continues repressions against Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars.
Mass detentions, trumped-up charges, and searches are just some of the punitive measures that the occupation authorities systematically use to suppress resistance.
On February 5, occupation forces searched Crimean Tatars’ homes and detained five people:
- Emir Kurtnezirov;
- Rustem Mustafayev;
- Abibulla Smedlyaev;
- Mirzaali Tajibayev;
- Bakhtiyar Ablaev.
All of them are accused of “terrorism” under Article 205.5 of the Criminal Code of Russia, which is a standard practice of persecution used against anyone who has a position inconvenient for the occupiers or refuses to cooperate.
The detainees were placed in a pre-trial detention center in Simferopol, and their lawyers are currently trying to gain access to their clients.
The latest detentions are yet another indication that the Russian occupation authorities in Crimea are not only suppressing any manifestations of resistance, but are also targeting Crimean Tatars as an ethnic group. According to official data, 132 out of 218 illegally detained persons in Crimea are Crimean Tatars.
Repressions against them are systemic. Using far-fetched accusations of terrorism, extremism and treason, the occupiers are trying to neutralize active members of the community by intimidating their families and associates. Some of the latest detainees are relatives of political prisoners, which demonstrates a policy of collective punishment.
In addition to arrests, Russian security forces regularly carry out so-called “counter-sabotage” activities that are actually aimed at creating an atmosphere of fear among the local population.
Russia traditionally resorts to mass repression when it feels threatened by its domination. The growing resistance, the resilience of the local population and the impossibility of full control over the peninsula force the occupiers to resort to terror.
However, the practice of harassment and intimidation does not have the expected effect. The Ukrainian resistance in Crimea, despite all the threats, continues to operate and gain strength. Repressions only increase distrust of the occupiers and strengthen the belief in the return of the peninsula to Ukraine.
You can stop the policy of the Russian invaders and their collaborators by publicizing their crimes and demanding their international prosecution. You can also participate in rallies in support of Ukraine or donate to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.