29 Oct 2018 | 06:52 PM UTC
Russia: 49 people arrested during protests in Moscow and St. Petersburg Oct. 28 /update 1
49 people arrested in Moscow and St. Petersburg on October 28 during unauthorized demonstrations; further protests possible in the near term
Event
At least 49 people were arrested by police forces in Moscow and St. Petersburg during unauthorized demonstrations organized by the Parent Web civil society group. Reports indicate that 40 demonstrators were arrested in St. Petersburg, while nine others were arrested in Moscow. According to local sources, the demonstrations were organized to demand the release of ten people arrested by the Federal Security Service (FSB) in March 2017 for being members of an alleged extremist group. Further demonstrations are possible Moscow and St. Petersburg in the near term. A heightened security presence is expected around any protest.
Advice
Individuals in Russia are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
