Detainees kept in SIZO of Cherkessk tried to riot, says a lawyer

On July 18, the suspects kept in the SIZO (pre-trial prison) of the city of Cherkessk attempted to launch a rebellion, said the advocate of one of them, adding that it was caused by violations made by law enforcers.

"One of the reasons for the protest was the lawlessness of operative agents who take inmates out for questioning: they use violence and force suspects to write statements of renouncing the defence," the advocate of one of the SIZO inmates told the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent on the condition of anonymity.

"I and another defender witnessed what was happening. The SIZO was full of buzz and clatter, detainees' obscene cries were heard; the corridor was all in blood – apparently they took away a detainee who cut his veins," said the defender.

"Near the facility we saw three cars of operative agents of the North-Caucasian Federal District (NCFD), who took away their suspects in them, although they should use only special convoy vehicles to transport inmates," he added.

His colleague also confirmed the information about the riot; however, the administration of SIZO No. 1 of Cherkessk did not confirm the fact to the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent.