Human rights activists from Ingushetia initiate debates on kidnappings at European Parliament

On January 10, the session of the European Parliament in Brussels will discuss the situation with kidnappings in Ingushetia. Ibragim Lyanov and Madina Lyanova, independent human rights activists from this republic, who represent interests of their countrymen in Europe, were among initiators of the debates.

The reason for addressing the European Parliament was in several kidnappings committed in Ingushetia in recent weeks. On December 30, Adam Khamkhoev, 25, was kidnapped (released on January 3) together with his friends – Pliev brothers; and on December 22, Zalina Elkhoroeva, 30, a resident of Nazran, disappeared. The woman has not been found yet, although, according to her relatives, she is in SIZO (pre-trial prison) in Vladikavkaz, and Ingush authorities know about it.

Ibragim Lyanov said that he addressed the Council of Europe and Dick Marty, a member of the PACE, who expressed his concern about the recent resonant disappearances in the republic. Besides, the human rights activist complained of human rights violations in Ingushetia to Heidi Hautala, head of the Subcommittee on Human Rights of the European Parliament.

According to Madina Lyanova, human rights activists are outraged that the detained Ingushes are brought to detention facilities located in the neighbouring North Ossetia. Ms Lyanova expressed her particular concern for the fate of Elkhoroeva.

"I know the methods of investigation; and I won't be surprised if Zalina signs everything inspectors present to her," said Madina Lyanova.

The press services of all the agencies responsible for the search of the missing woman are at New Year holidays and refrain from official comments. The office of the Ombudsman in Ingushetia reports that its employees are doing everything in their competence to search the kidnapped woman.

According to the human rights organization "Mashr", in 2010 in Ingushetia and abroad at least 13 residents of the republic disappeared, including Zalina Elkhoroeva.