500 persons detained in Moscow for participation in unsanctioned actions

Today, in the course of unauthorized actions, about 500 persons were detained for various offences, committed in the Russian capital. It was reported by Viktor Biryukov, Head of the Information and Public Relations Department of the Moscow GUVD (Chief Interior Department).

The Moscow Mayoralty had authorized only the picket in Ostankino. From 4 p.m., a large crowd of protesters, militiamen and media people gathered in front of the Television Centre.

The organizers of the event read out a resolution, which included, among other things, the demand to stop the policy of incorrect, in their opinion, coverage by state-owned mass media of the latest developments in Manege Square and near the "Evropeiskiy" Shopping Centre in Moscow. Another announced demand assumed separation of the Caucasian republics from Russia and change of the current leadership of the country.

Further actions moved to the Ostankino Park, where militiamen blocked a group of young people - some 100-150 persons strong, who stick together and were shouting nationalist slogans.

On the militia's request the visitors of the park abandoned the territory, and OMON (special militia) units entered there. The journalists present there were also recommended to leave the park.

Approximately after 5 p.m. detentions began. The crowd of youth was brought - without great resistance - to exit of the park and surrounded by militia units. Then, a "corridor" was made, through which they were passed one by one, searched and spread among special militia vans. Many detainees asked journalists not to film their faces.