Statkevich not allowed to read independent press

Syarhei Skrabets, a party fellow of imprisoned Mikalai Statkevich, received a package with newspapers he had earlier sent to the political prisoner in a prison in Hrodna.

He saw a stamp “banned” on the package, Radio Svaboda reports.

“There is a stamp saying he cannot receive mail. I don't know why, but I think it's because I sent him Naradnaya Volya and BelGazeta newspapers. Though as far as I know, prisoners are allowed to read Narodnaya Volya. But why is BelGazeta guilty? I was surprised. When I was in prison, I received all newspapers. Either they find Statkevich very dangerous, or these newspapers are considered banned – I don't know.

By the way, I also sent a short letter, just three lines to support Mikalai. The letter was not returned. He possibly received the letter, but the newspapers did not pass censorship. But I do not rule out the letter might have been destroyed. He once wrote me, not by official mail, they show him a letter and then destroy it. He cannot read it. And he signs a paper saying he saw the letter to him was destroyed,” Skrabets says.