Riots in Ossetian colony followed the change of local FSIN branch head

The riots in the maximum security penal colony occurred a week after the appointment of a new head of the North-Ossetian branch of the Russian FSIN (Federal Penitentiary Service). The new bosses have toughened the attitude to inmates, sources have informed.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that on October 15, riots broke out in the North-Ossetian maximum security colony. Prisoners have reported to the anti-torture hotline in jails that beatings preceded the riots.

Ruslan Totrov, a journalist, told the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent that he had received, for a long time, information about violations of inmates' rights in this colony. "You should understand that a riot is the most extreme measure that prisoners resort to. It is a kind of step or a gesture of despair. I hope that the Investigating Committee of the Russian Federation (ICRF), which launched an inquiry into the events, will pay attention to the activities of these gentlemen in uniform in the past," Mr Totrov has added.

Alan Mamiev, a blogger, has linked the riots with the replacement of the leadership of the local FSIN branch, who, according to his version, has toughened the attitude towards prisoners. "This caused tensions. In the end, several prisoners were beaten up. In response, several inmates have cut themselves (inflicted injuries on themselves as a sign of protest, – note of the "Caucasian Knot"); and one has stitched up his mouth."

This article was originally published on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’ on October 16, 2021 at 06:22 pm MSK. To access the full text of the article, click here.