Court refuses to commute sentences of three Ingush activists

Barakh Chemurziev, Ismail Nalgiev and Bagaudin Khautiev, who had already served most of their eight-year sentences, have asked the court to replace their remaining prison terms with some sanction not related to freedom deprivation. The court in the Stavropol Territory, where they are in a penal colony, has refused to grant their motions.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that on January 18, 2024, the defence of seven Ingush activists filed a complaint with the cassation court in Pyatigorsk. The court of appeal had made grave violations, and this should justify the conviction cancellation, their advocates have stated.

Barakh Chemurziev has already served more than 7/8 of his sentence, his petition states. He has smooth relations with other convicts; he is polite and respectful with the colony administration and undergoes professional training.

Chemurziev has elderly disabled parents who need his help, as well as two minor children and one child with a childhood disability.

Bagaudin Khautiev's petition also states that he has calm relationships with other convicts; he has no conflicts and is undergoing training. He has elderly disabled parents and four young children.

Ismail Nalgiev has an elderly mother at home who needs his help and care.

Let us remind you that since January 13, 2023, the Stavropol Territorial Court has been considering complaints against the sentence of seven protest leaders in Magas. The activists and their advocates then pointed out that the first-instance court had failed to into account many facts indicating the defendants' innocence. However, the Territorial Court upheld the verdict.