Belarus: Security forces arrest hundreds of demonstrators in Minsk October 11 /update 55

Event

Security forces detained over 400 people during anti-government demonstrations in Minsk on Sunday, October 11, amid continued protests demanding the resignation of President Alexander Lukashenko. Police deployed water cannons, stun grenades, and tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters who had blocked roads in central Minsk. A number of metro stations were also closed during the unrest. 

Further protests are likely to continue over the near term and a heightened security presence is expected in the vicinity of any demonstrations.

Context 

Election officials announced that Lukashenko had won 80 percent of the vote in the presidential election held on August 9, with the main opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanouskaya gaining 9.9 percent. Lukashenko faced few challenges to his sixth term as president, with his main rivals Valery Tsepkalo and Viktor Babariko being barred from standing. However, the run-up to the election saw increased political tensions and opposition protest activity. Opposition groups have denounced the election results as fraudulent.

Protests have taken place throughout Belarus since the election result was announced, with security forces blocking access to a number of cities as clashes with protesters were reported. Security forces have deployed tear gas, rubber bullets, water cannons, batons, and concussion grenades in attempts to disperse crowds. The promise of military support from Russian President Vladimir Putin has seemingly emboldened Lukashenko and has seen a new wave of arrests during opposition demonstrations in Minsk and other urban centers.

Advice

Those in Belarus, particularly in Minsk, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, and refrain from discussing politically sensitive topics in public or on social media.